Full text of "Annals of Southern Methodism for 1856"

v^:

PITIS

1 HEOLOGY

L I B RARY

Gift from
Mrs. Gay B. Evans
1997

EMORY UNIVERSITY
ATLANTA, GEORGIA 30322

Ci3

l'j({

cS^

ANNALS

S0UTHEK5 METHODISM

FOR

18 5 6.

EDITED BY THE

KEV. CHARLES F. DEEMS, D.D.,

OP THE NORTH -CAROLINA CONFERENCE.

*9*

NASHVILLE, TENN., STEVENSON & OWEN.

Norfolk, Va., W. P. Griffith. — "Wilming^ton, N. C, S. W. Whitakee.-
Charleston, S. C, E. H. Mteks. — New-Orleans, La., II. D.
McGiNNis. — Now- York, Jonx A. Gray.

And by tlie Booksellers generally.

Anna.

ES'JSISB, ACCOJIDING TO ACT OP CONGRESS, IN TUB TEAR 1857.

John h. Geat, Printer and Stereotypbr,

16 & 18 Jacob Street, New-York,

Fire-Proof Buildings.

PEEFACE.

This volume is the second of its series. Tiie intern is lu lurmou o.^ .x^^-^-
volume which shall present, in a collected form, all that is desirable for full
information in regard to the workings and growth of the Southern Methodist
Church.

The volume for 1855 contamed the statistics of the numbers of church-
members on each station and circuit. These occupy much space, and are
contained in the " General Minutes," which constitute one of the permanent
documents of the Church. For these reasons, they are omitted this year ;
otherwise, the general cast of the work is the same as that of its predecessor.

One who has never undertaken it can scarcely estimate the amount of
labor necessarily expended on the preparation of such a book as this. After
all, it does not reach the compiler's ideal. Where so many periodicals must
be consulted, and the loss of a single newspaper may occasion great perplex-
ity, the Editor has found his patience sorely tested in his efforts to digest and
arrange his materials.

The fact that some of our weekly Church journals represent several Con-
ferences ; that the Conferences are not bounded by State lines ; that it is
therefore frequently difficult to assign particular churches, institutions, and
individuals, to the Conferences to which they belong ; render it almost
impracticable to make a digest of some of the materials when collected. Tlio
writers of articles for our newspapers, are not always careful to mark their
Conferences ; sometimes there is no clue — no State, Conference, District,
Station, Town, or Post-office, being mentioned. The Editor begs leave to
call attention to this. A little carefulness would save vast trouble to the
collectors of historical materials. The reports of revivals are specially
defective in this particular.

Notwithstanding these difficulties, the Editor is happy to learn that the
volume for 1855 gave so much and such general satisfaction ; that it is con-
sidered so complete and impartial ; and that it has done much towards

IV PEKFACE. ^

giving the communicants of the Church it represents, and the intelhgent of
other Churches, a fair idea of our plans and operations : and he hopes that
this year he has prepared a volume which will be so generously received by
the Church and the public as to justify the continuance of the series, which
the very highest authorities pronounce of incalculable historic value to the
Church.

It will be perceived, by comparing the volumes, that in the first a greater
prominence is given to some points of interest, and in the second to others.
It is believed that by this means the series will be more satisfactory to the
mass of readers, and greater variety will be maintained.

lu regard to the recurrence of the name of the Editor, he must refer to the
remarks on that subject in the preface to the volume for 1855 ; and will only
add that only such selections have been made from current notices as in the
judgment of judicious friends were due to the truth of history, and the im-
partiality necessary to such a work as this.

The Editor will thankfully receive any original communications illustrating
the history of our Church, or the biography of any of its ministers and mem-
bers, and will be grateful for suggestions assisting him to render the work,
from year to year, more useful as a book of reference and more interesting
for general reading.

Wilmington, N. 0.

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER I.

PAGE

The Episcopacy :
Bishops of the' M. E. Church,

South, 9

Episcopal Visitatiou, , . 9

CHAPTER II,

The Annual Conferences :

Conference,

1. Florida

2. Pacific

3. Western Va. "

4. Kentucky "

5. Missouri "

6. Louisville "

7. St. Louis "

8. Tennessee "

9. Kansas "

10. Memphis "

11. Holston ■ "

12. Indian Mission "

13. Arkansas "

14. Pacific "

15. North-Carolina "

16. Ouachita "

17. South-Carolina "

18. East Texas "

19. Virginia "

20. Mississippi "

21. Georgia "

22. Texas "

23. Alabama "

24. Florida "
Church Membership,
Preachers admitted on trial.

CHAPTER III.

Dedication of CnuucnES :
Garrettsburg, Ky.,
Brunswick Landing, Miss.,

10
13
16
18
20
22
24
27
81
33
36
38
39
40
41
44
46
49
50
54
56
60
63
68
70
70

74
74

PAGB

Montgomery, Ala., . . .75

Cambridge, Mo., ... 76

Bell's Chapel, Ky., ... 76

Elliott's Hill, Va., ... 76

Stricklandsville, N. C, . . 77

" The Haven," Va., ... 77

Griffin, Ga 77

Columbia, Texas, ... 78

Charleston, S. C, ... 79

Watson Chapel, Ala., . . 81
Jefferson, Ala., . . . .81

Enterprise, Miss., ... 81

Winston, N. C, . . . . 82

Kingstree, S. C, . . . 82

Clinton, N. C, . . . . 83

Sydney, Richmond, Va., . . 84

Portsmouth, Va 85

Doub's Chapel, N. C, . . 85

Pikesville, N. C, ... 86

Huntsville, Texas, ... 86
Montevallo, Ala., . , . .88

CHAPTER IV.

Missions :
Extracts from Eleventh Annual

Report, 89

Officers of the Society, , . 89
Anniversary, . . . .90

1. Missions in Destitute Portions

of the Regular Work, . . 92

2. Missions to People of Color, . 101

3. German Missions, . . 101

4. Indian " ... 103

5. China " , . 108

6. Pacific " ... 115
Recapitulation, . '. . ii5
Amount of Cv)llections, . . 117

Item, 117

Nobly Done 117

Incidents of Missionary Life, . 118

CONTENTS.

CHAPTER V.

PAGE

Colleges axd Schools :
Shelbyville University, . . 122
Emory College, . . .122
Southern University, . . • 130
Hunts ville Female College, . 123
Soulo University, . . . 123
Florence University, . . 124
Spartanburg Female College, . 126
Tuskegee " " . 128

Wesleyan " " N.C., . 130

Centenary College, La., . 131, 144
Carolina Female College, N.. C, 132
Greensboro Female College, N.C.,

133, 145
Franklin Female College, . . 134
Crawford Institute, Ark., . 134
Raleigh Female Seminary, N. C, 134
Goldsboro Female College, N. C,

135, 145

R. M. College, Va 135

Warrenton Female College, N C, 136
Columbia Female College, . . 136
Marshall Institute, Miss., . 137
Female Collegiate Institute, Va., 138
Madison Female College,
Wesleyan Female College, Ga., .
Centenarv Institute, Ala.,
Wofford College, S. C,
Ohio High School, N. C,
Central College, Mo.,
Normal College, N. C,
Rutersville College, Texas, .
Metropolitan Meth. University, .
Education Institute,
Speech of Rev. C. K. Marshall,
on laying Corner-Stone of Cen-
tenary College, La., . . .151
Literary Institutions of the Ch., 154

CHAPTER VI.

138

139

140

. 140

142, 146

. 144

. 145

. 147

148

149

CHAPTER VII.

Tract Society :
In New-Orleans, La., .

FACE

. 164

S0NDAT-ScnOOLS:

Sunday-School Society,
Camden, S. C,
Arrow Rock, Mo.,
* Georgia, .
Texas, ....
California,

Memphis Conference, .
Virginia, "
Columbia, S. C, .
New-Orleans, La., .
St. Louis, Mo.,
Elliott Hill, Va.,
Charleston, S. C.,
Little Girl who built a
Altar, .

Family

154
155
156
157
158
158
159
159
159
160
160
162
163

163

165
167
169
169
170
170

171

CHAPTER VIII;

SotiTiiERN Methodist Literature :
PubUshing Interests in Charles-
ton, S. C, ....
Annual Meeting Joint Board, .
Book Agent elect.
Book Agent, ....

In and Out,

Quarterly Removals,
Second Annual Exhibit of Finan-
cial Condition of Publishing
House, ....

Circular, 172

Periodicals of the Church, . . 173
Literary Notices, . . • 174
Contents of Quarterly Review, . 189

CHAPTER IX.

Our People op Color :
Extracts from Missionary Re-
port, 190

An Incident, .... 202

Another 203

Religious Instruction of Negroes, 203
Rev. H. A. C. "Walker's Circular, 203
A Fortnight among the Blacks,

by Bishop Early, . . .204
Another Letter from Bp. Early, . 207
An Annual Gift, . . .209
Handsome Donation, . . . 209

CHAPTER X.

Historical Sketches :

Methodism in Charleston, . . 210

" Washington, N.C., 239

" Wayne Co., N. C, 257

" Darien, Ga., . 259

CHAPTER XL

Biographical Sketches :

Rev. J. H. Millard, . . .259

" LW. Childs, . . .260

" John Lane 262

" James U. Mellard, . . 266

" Wm. Burke, . . .263

" W. L. Blanton, . . 272

" John M. Taylor, . . .275

" U. G. Leigh, D.D., . . 278

CONTENTS.

PAGE

Rev. Wiley Warwick", . . .279

" James Patterson, . . 282

« J. M. Wells, . . .282

" George Ekin, . . .285

" Henry Fullingim, . . 286

" C. W. Rozell, . . .288

" J. M. Kelly, . . .289

" Ulrich Keener, . . 289

" E. C. Thornton, . . .290

" R. W. Spence, . . 292

James M. Elam, . . _ . .292

CHAPTER XII.

Personal Notices of the Living :
Rev. Dr. Doub, . . . .293
" Bishop Kavanaugh, 293, 297, 302
" " Peirce, . , 293, 297
" Dr. Deems, . . 294, 299
" ^V. H. Milburn, . . .294
" Bishop Early, . . .295
" Dr. Daggett, . . .295
" Bishop Andrew, . . 295

Rev. the Bishops,

" Dr. Huston,

" A. R. Erwin,

" F. E. Pitts,

" Dr. Parsons,

" G. W. D. Harris,

" J. E. Edwards,

" Dr. Longstreet,
" " Green, .

" J.E.Cobb,

" Dr. Cross, .

" F. A. Mood, .

Sketch of Bishop Early,

CHAPTER XIII.

PACE

. 290

296
. 297

298
. 299

800
. 300

300
. 800

301
. 301

301
. 302

Miscellaneous :
Southern Methodism, . . . 304
Southern Methodism in England, 306
A Conference Faculty, . . 307
"Perhaps the Carolinas," . .309
Methodist Historical Society, . 309

NOTICES OF THE EIEST VOLUME.

" As admirable Annual." — New- Orleans Advocate.

"A vast amount of valuable information." — Texas Advocate.

"As a manual for reference, and as a foundation for history, it will prove
invaluable." — S. M. Quarterly.

" Nowlicre else can be found all the digested information this volume con-
tains."

"It must have cost great labor." — Southern Methodist Quarterly.

"The^Zaw and execution of it we highly commend." — Ibid.

"It is purely historical, not partaking of any thing like offensive controversy
with other denominations."

"A ve7-y complete and useful repository of information." — Quarterly Review.

" There can be no sort of doubt about the success of this book." — Home
Circle.

"We had not expected to find it so deeply interesting.^^ — Texas Advocate.

"How can we, after this, do without it?" — Home Circle.

" "Will get more out of it than the worth of one dollar." — N. 0. Advocate.

" Cheap at five times the cost." — Home Circle.

"Every Methodist in the South should procure it." — North' Carolina Ad-
vocate.

"It will have an enormous circulation." — Home Circle.

AMALS OF SOUTHERN METHODISM

FOR

18 5 6

^» ♦

CHAPTER I

THE EPISCOPACY

BISHOPS OF THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SOUTH.

NAMTia.

Joshua Soule, D.D.,

James Osgood Andrew, D.D.,

Robert Paine, D.D.,

George Foster Pierce, D.D.,

John Early, D.D.,

Hubbard Hinde Kavanaugh, D.D.,

RESIDKNOB.

Nashville, Tenn.
Summerfield, Ala.
Aberdeen, Miss.
Culverton, Ga.
Lynchburg, Va.
Louisville, Ky.

PLAN OF EPISCOPAL VISITATION FOR 1856.

FIKST DISTRICT, BISHOP ANDREW.

Tennessee Conference, at Huntsville, Ala., Oct. 16, 1850.

Holston " " KnoxviUe, Tenn., " 29, "

South-Carolina " " Yorkville, S. C, Nov. 19, "

Georgia " " Americus, Ga., Dec. 3, "

Florida " " Alligator, Fla., " 17, "

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

SECOND DISTRICT, BISHOP EARLT.

Western Virginia Conf ,

Kentucky

Louisville

Memphis

North-Carolina

Virginia

u
1(
1(
(1
(I

Guyandotte, Va., Sept. 4, 1856.
Winchester, Ky., " 17, "
Elizabethtown,Ky.,Oct. 1,
Jackson, Tenn., " 15,
Greensboro', N. C, Nov. 12,
Richmond, Va., " 26,

THIRD DISTRICT, BISHOP PIERCE.

Missouri Conference,
St. Louis "

Arkansas "

Ouchita "

Mississippi "

Alabama "

u
11
(1
a
i(

Louisiana,
Charleston, Mo.,
Batesville, Ark.,
Princeton, Ark.,
Kosioska, Miss.,
Tuskegee, Ala.,

Sept. 24, 1856.
Oct. 8,

" 29,
Nov. 12,

" 26,
Dec. 10,

FOURTH DISTRICT, BISHOP PAINE.

Kansas Conference,
Indian Mission "
East-Texas "

Texas "

at Kickapoo, Oct. 3, 1856.

" Chickasaw School, " 23,

" Paris, Texas, Nov. 5,

" Gonzales, Texas, Dec. 8,

Pacific Conference,
Louisiana "

FIFTH DISTRICT, BISHOP KAVANAUGH.

at Gihroy, Nov. 12, 1856.

" Waterproof, La., Feb. 11, 1857.

CHAPTER II

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

I. Florida.

BISHOP ANDREW. — JANUARY 2-8.

[From the Southern C. Advocate.']

Mr. Editor: The Florida Conference has just closed — upon the whole
one of the most harmonious and pleasant sessions we have ever held.
Bishop Andrew, as you know, did not arrive until Sunday evening.
The causes of his delay you know very well, as you were his companion
in all those troubles, and I have no doubt will make them known to the
public. Oh ! that we had railroads in all this country.

FLOKIDA. 1 1

The Conference organized on the 2d inst., by electing S. P. Richard-
son President, and Tho. N. Gardener Secretary. The President pre-
sided with dignity and ability, clearly proving himself to be the very
man for the position, with the peculiarly embarrassing circumstances
by which he was surrounded. I need not speak of the manner in
which Bishop Andrew presided and carried forward the business to the
close of the session. The preachers, most of them, succeeded in getting
to Conference, though they came through great perils ; crossing rivers
almost impassable, and swimming creeks. Many of them travelled
while the rain fell in torrents. We trust that a good Providence pre-
served the lives of our brethren who were not in attendance.

It will be seen from the list of appointments that our ranks are fast
fiUing up. "We had accessions to our effective list by admissions, read-
missions, transfers, and from the superannuated list, of 24.

Admitted on trial : Joseph A. W. Johnson, Valerius C. Cannon,
Isaac A. Towers, Grandison Royster, Thomas R. Barnett, Sam. S. Cobb,
WilUs P. Ocain, Thomas A. Carruth, John F. Andrews, Theophilus J.
Johnson, Charles P. Murdock, Robert F. Lenoir, James W. Points, and
James M. Mills.

Readmitted : William J. Duval, Thomas C. Coleman, Milton C. Smith,
and Aaron W. Harris.

From the Superannuated list : G. W. Fagg and Owen B. Stanley.

By transfers : William L. Murphy, John W. McCrary, and W, Da-
vies.

Continued on trial : David L. Kennedy, Martin V. Wells, James T.
Stockton, James 0. Branch, Franklin A. Branch, John L. Williams,
Francis M. Wilson, and Amos Davis.

Discontinued at his own request : Peter B. Bedford.

Now Mr. Editor, I venture the assertion that the first classes of our
Conference vnll compare favorably with like classes of any conference in
our connection. They are mostly young men of great promise.

Admitted into full connection and ordained deacons : James W. Jack-
son, Archibald Johnson, Robert J. McCook, and William Peeler. Samuel
A. McCook and William K. Turner were ordained elders.

Two of our brethren died last year — Franklin Stewart and William
Choice. Suitable and merited tributes were paid to their memory.

A fine religious feeling pervaded the congregations at the chiu"ch. A
number of mourners were at the altar for prayer, and all the preachers
who occupied the pulpit acquitted themselves well, and preached with
the unction and power of the Spirit.

The Conference Tract Society held its anniversary meeting at the
church on Saturday afternoon. G. W. Fagg, our agent for that work,
delivered an effective address, and $130.20 were raised for the tract cause.
We intend, as a Conference, to push forward this great work.

The Missionary Society held its anniversary meeting at the church
on Monday night. Do you think, Mr. Editor, we shall ever forget the
rasping the venerable Bishop and yourself gave us ? No, never. We
shall remember it to do better this year. The Bishop especially made
us feel quite ashamed of our collections. He impressed, he enforced,
ay, sir, he burnt in our minds the ftict that we ought to have done, and
must do, better in this respect. The good Bishop, yourself, and the
whole ChJrch may rest assured that wo will do better this year. We

12 TUE ANNUAL CONTEKENCES.

will take up these collections the first of the year, before the rainy sea-
sons come on to cut them off, as they did the year which is past. As
an evidence that the congregation as well as preachers felt the force of
the speeches made on the occasion, about $570 were raised, much the
largest collection ever raised at an anniversary in this Conference.

The Treasurer of Board of Finance settled with claimants at 31 per
cent. This is a small amount ; but when it is remembered that we
have a long list of superannuated preachers, widows, and orphans upon
our young Conference, it will not be matter for astonishment, though we
hope to do better in this respect.

We much feared there would be a falling off in numbers in Society
when we came to make a clear report, which we trust was done ; but
judge of oirr agreeable disappointment when, on footing up, we dis-
covered an increase of 931 whites, 472 colored, and 17 local preachers.
The report fi-om Jacksonville was not complete, which will probably
swell the increase to over 1000 whites and 500 colored.

Thos. N. Gardener, Secretary.

Appointtnents.

Tallahassee District. — J. R. PmaDtER, P. E.

Tallahassee, Joscphus Anderson. South-Gadsden, I. A. Towers.

Quincy, Thomas Gardner. Gadsden, J. J. Seeley.

Chau'es colored mission, O. B. Gadsden col. mis., (to b« supplied.)

Stanley. Simon P. Richardson, Agent Amc-

Leon, "W. J. Duval. rican Bible Society.

Wakulla, James Peeler. George W. Fagg, Tract Agent

Bainlriclge District. — ^W. M, Kennedy, P. E.

Albany, Dennis B. Lyue. MUford mission, Thos. 0. Coleman.

Bainbridge, F. A. Branch. Blakely, David L. Kennedy.

Newton, R. F. Lanier. Decatur, Seaborn C. Childs.

Calhoun mission, James A. Mc- Baker colored mis., (to be supplied.)
CoUum.

Thomasville District. — P. P. Smith, P. E.

Thomasville, F. R. C. Ellis. Isabella mission, (to be supplied.)

Duncanville, Milton C. Smith. Alapaha mission, T. P. Murdock.

Grooversville, Capel Raiford. Flint River mission, T. J. Johnson.

Troupville, R. J. McCook. Ocklocknee mission, J. W. Jackson.

Grand Bay, Amos Davis. R. H. Lucky, Princ. Fletcher Inst.

Madison District. — John W. Mills, P. E.

Madison, Samuel Woodbury, Yale- Hamilton, W. K. Turner.

rius C. Cannon. Sewannee mission, T. R. Barnett.

Monticello, J. W. Rhodes. Columbia, J. M. Hendry, WilliS

South-Madison mission, G. Royster. Ocain.

Madison colored mis., (to be sup.) R. H. Howren, Agent for East-Flo-
Aucilla colored mis., W. W. Griffin, rida Seminary at Micanopy.
Santa Fe mission, Aaron W. Harris.

PACIFIC CONFEllENCE. 13

St. Mary's District.— 11. N. Gardner, P. E.

St Mary's, J. 0. Branch. HolmesviUe, J. M. N. Low, F. W.
Centre ViUage, T. H. Carruth. Wilson.

SatiUa col. mis., (to be supplied.) Waresboro', William Peeler.

Brunswick, S. McCook. Irvin J. F Andrews.

Altamaha col. mis., Willis HaU. Clinch, J. L. Williams.

Jaclcsomille District.— Joss C. Ley, P. E.

JacksonviUe, R. M. Tydings. Orange mission S. S. Cobb

Black Creek, William Edwards. Newnansville, J. J. Kichards.

Palatka, W. W. Davies. Micanopy colored mission, (to be
Fernandina mis., Martm V.WeUs. supplied.)

Nassau, (to be supplied.) St. John's, A. J. Johnson.

Tampa District— Geo. W. Pratt, P. E.

Key West, J. P. Richardson. Marion, John McOrary.

Tampa, W. L. Murphy. Cedar Keys, W. G. Points.

Manatee, (to be supplied.) Ocala, W. T. Harrison.

Hillsboro'mis., Jos. A.W.Johnston. Sumpter mission, J. M. MiUs.
Hernando mission, Jas. T. Stockton.

Next Conference to be held at Alligator.

II. Pacific Conference.

Rev. Wm. R. Gober.*— February 21-2G.

[Frmi the Southern G. Advocate, April 3.]

A letter from Rev. 0. P. Fitzgerald brings us intelligence that the
Pacific Annual Conference of the M. E. Church, South, convened at
San Francisco on the 21st day of February, 1856. The session was
opened with divine service by Brother 0. Fisher. Bishop Kavanaugh
having failed to arrive, the Conference proceeded to elect a President,
from among the presiding elders. Brother W. R. Gober was elected.
Brother M. Evans was elected Secretary, and 0. P. Fitzgerald requested
to act as Assistant Secretary. The usual committees were appointed.
S. D. Bunch, Henry C. Settle, James B. WiUiams, J. L. S. Woods, J.
G. Johnson, E. G. Cannon, and David Beauchamp were admitted on
trial. John T. Cox's character was examined and he continued on
trial. A Conference Love Feast was held at three o'clock m the after-
noon. Brother F. says that " it was a pentecostal occasion. The Spirit
descended upon the disciples. The brethren spoke with feelmg. Bro-
ther Bailey, the ' sweet singer' of our California Israel, enlivened the
exercises with portions of the good old Mcthodistic songs— and when, at

* In the absence of Bbhop Kavanaugh.

14 THE ANNUAL CONFEEENCES.

the close of the meeting, old Father Cox rose, his head silvered with the
frosts of sixty winters, but with a spirit as fresh as in youth, with his
colossal form animated by a heart as soft and gentle as a woman's, and
spoke of what God had done for him and by him in his old age — when,
with streaming eyes, he expressed his regret that like some of the rest,
he had not begun to live for God when a boy — all hearts melted, and
there was general weeping and general rejoicing."

The second day's session was preceded by a prayer-meeting. R. A.
Latimer, M. Maupin, J. Bonsall, J. C. tStewart, and T. W. Moore were
continued on trial. J. W. Stahl, T. C. Barton, and 0. P. Fitzgerald
were received into full connection.

The third day was occupied in the examination of character, and in
the presentation of Sabbath-school and general church statistics.

The fourth day was the Sabbath. The members of the Conference
occupied most of the pulpits in the city.

On Monday, the several committees made their reports. The examin-
ation of character was resumed, and Brothers Russell, Graham, B. R.
Johnson, ElUs, Bigham, Sanders, Davies, Blythe, and J. C. Simmons
were examined and passed. W. A. Simmons was continued in his pre-
sent relation. L. C. Adams was located at his own request. J. G.
Shelton, a probationer of the first year, was continued on trial. A re-
solution was passed declaring that the Conference will endeavor to
increase the circulation of the Visitor. Gilroy was chosen as the place
for holding the next Conference. The Committee on Books and Period-
icals made a Report through Brother Blythe, their chairman, expres.s-
ing the hope that our Book Agents may soon find it conyenient to supply
us with books, and providing contingently, for the estabUshment of an
organ. This Report, with the accompanying Resolutions, elicited much
debate, pending which the Conference adjourned.

On Tuesday, measures were taken to adjust the affairs of the Bascom
Institute, at San Jose, the Conference undertaking to remunerate Bro-
ther Crouch for his sacrifices for that Institution. The committees of
examination were appointed. Resolutions were passed authorizing I

Brother B. T. Crouch, Jr., to travel in the Atlantic Conferences during ■

the present year, to procure funds for the erection of a M. E. Church
in San Francisco, and commending Brother Crouch to the confidence
and liberality of the brethren and fi-iends at home. J. T. Blythe was
appointed Book Agent — a not very laborious appointment heretofore.
Brother Crouch was requested to visit the General Book Agents, and
represent the Conference, with a view of making some arrangements by
which to be able to supply the work with books. " I earnestly hope,"
says the writer, " that in this he may succeed, for nothing has more
crippled our operations than the inability to supply our peoi)le with the
books they need, and ask us for." The question of estabUshing a paper
was before the Conference, and debated at length. The report of the
committee was finally indefinitely postponed. Brother 0. Fisher offered
the following resolution, which was adopted by a nearly unanimous vote :

" Hesoltcd, That in the event Brother 0. P. Fitzgerald shall attempt
to establish a religious newspaper at his own pecuniary risk, we will
give him our hearty cooperation, and will act as agents in procuring
subscribers, free of charge."

Brother Fisher was requested to preach a Sacramental Sermon at

PACIFIC CONFERENCE.

night previous to communion. The discourse was instructive and im-
pressive, and the occasion altogether to be remembered long and plea-
santly. The entu'e session was characterized by perfect harmony of
feeling and action. Brother Gober makes an excellent presiding officer,
and by his firmness, tact, and uniform courtesy commanded the esteem
and respect of all. Resolutions vrere passed expressive of the regret
of the Conference that Bishop Kavanaugh could not be present, and the
hope that he will remain with us until the next Session.

Appointments.
San Francisco District. — A. M. Bailey, P. E.

Oakland circuit, J. F. Blythe.
Contra Costa circuit, J. F. Cox.
San Jose and Santa Clara, B. R.

Johnson.
Santa Clara circuit, J. W. Stahl.

Los Angelos, J. "W. Ellis.
Bodega and Russian River circuit,

J. L. Sanders, M. Maupin.
Petaluma and Marin, J. 0. Pender-

grass.

Gilroy and Santa Cruz circuit, J. Sonoma and Sinsun, S. W. Davies,
G. Johnson, H. C. Settle. S. D. Bunch.

Sacramento District. — B. H. Russell, P. E.

Sacramento station, A. Graham.
Sacramento circuit, T. W. Moore.
MarysviUe station, (to be supplied.)
Nevada station, W. R. Gober.
Grass Valley station, M. Evans.
Iowa City circuit, J. 0. Stewart.
Georgetown circuit, (to be sup.)

Placerville circuit, P. 0. Clayton,

(one to be supplied.)
Amador circuit, J. M. Fulton, R.

C. Martin.
Yolo circuit, R. A. Latimer, J. G.

Shelton.
Yuba circuit, (to be supplied.)

StocMon District. — ^R. W. Bigham, P. E.

Merced circuit, J. Bonsall, D.

Beauchamp.
Mariposa circuit, J. C. Simmons,
Visalia circuit, P. G. Gray, J. L.

S. Woods.
Volcano circuit, (to be supplied.)

Stockton station, 0. Fisher.
Stockton circuit, T. C. Barton, J.

B. WiUiams.
Murphy circuit, E. G. Cannon.
Sonora and Columbia station, 0.

P. Fitzgerald.
J. F. Blythe, Book Agent.

The whole number of members, including probationers, is 937.
Whole number of preachers, 35 ; churches, 24 ; parsonages, 7 ; local
preachers, 16.

[From same paper, April 10.]

The name of B. T. Crouch was omitted by our correspondent, in the
appointments of this Conference, given last week. We learn from the
Galifornia Christian Advocate Qui. E. Cliurch) that he is stationed in
San Francisco. From the same paper we gather a few more items.

16 THE ANNUAL CONFEKBNCES.

There are under the supervision of our church 20 S. schools, 88 teach-
ers, 575 scholars, 3136 vols., and $508.50 has been collected for S.
school purposes. There are 729 members, 190 probationers — total,
919, and an increase of 80 during the year, or nearly o?ie tenth, a larger
pro2)ortionate increase, we presume, than most of the Conferences can
show. There are 10 local preachers, 17 churches, and 7 parsonages.
Collected for missions, $219.55 ; and $251 for Bible Society. The
claims upon Conference fund was $7802, of which $6831 was paid,
leaving the deficiency $1031. There are fifteen preachers on trial,
six of whom were received at the late Conference. Thus is God raising
up men in that country to preach the Gospel. Thirty-five preachers
received appointments, and three places are " to be supplied."

All these facts are encouraging ; and we hope that they will induce
our friends to continue, as far as may be necessary, their aid to this
Conference until it shall be fully supplied with men and means for ag-
gression upon the strongholds of sin. Such success multiplies itself in
geometrical ratio, and it can not be long before this Conference is self-
sustaining, and one of our most promising fields of labor.

In this connection we call attention to the " Appeal " from Brother
Fitzgerald in behalf of the Pacific Methodist — a title, by the way, that
may be taken as an augury for peace with other churches. No weekly
paper perhaps is intrinsically worth $5 per annum in this country ; yet
we soUcit subscribers for this, not so much for the value received, as for
the aid thus given to a much needed instrument of success in that coun-
try. Brother F. is himself a practical printer, and the more likely to
succeed if proper aid be extended to him ; and how many are there,
among the hearty friends of Methodism, who for a few years could give
annually $5 for a paper as they would make a missionary contribution
— and this would be one — for the good the gift would secure. We offer
our services to all liberal fi'iends, who may wish to give their aid to this
enterprise. We will receive their money and forward their names. Wo
perhaps should not omit to remind them, as a reason for the high price
set upon the paper, that every thing for an outfit is to be procured at a
high cost ; and that what we would call very high prices here, would be
considered moderate in that land of gold.

III. Western Virginia,

Bisnop Early. — Sept. 4-9.

[From the RicTiinond Cliristian Advocate.']

The annual session of this body was held in Guyandotte, Virginia.
It commenced on Thursday the 4th instant ; and closed on Tuesday
evening the ninth. Bishop Early presided. The Bishop is " diligent
in business, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord" — both in a vigilant and
faitliful supervision of the interests of the Church, and in laborious
efforts for the spiritual improvement and welfare of ministers and people.
His practice of Conference prayer-meetings — opening each session with
a preliminary half-hour devoted to exhortation, singing, and prayer —

AVESTEKN VIHaiNIA. 17

was here as elsewhere, attended with very happy results. Besides its
influence upon the religious feelings of the ministry, and in diffusing a
pervasive spirituality through their business proceedings, it had a good
effect upon the laity who were present in large numbers ; and enjoyed
them as seasons of grace and refreshing to their souls. Several per-
sons came forward for prayers and instruction in the way of salvation ;
and the savor of these meetings spread themselves through the congre-
gations attending on the more public services of the church. Many
were quickened, and some, we believe, graciously converted during the
Conference. Altogether the religious services of the session were of
an impressive and hallowed character.

The Western Va. Conference is a growing body. It is growing in
the number and strength of its ministers, growing in the number, zeal,
and devotion of its laity, growing in the number of its appointments,
in its hold upon the people. Its territory is expanding ; and there is a
regularly increasing demand for a larger supply of ministers. Young
men, strong in spiritual power, ardent in zeal to spread Scripture holi-
ness, endowed with gifts, and diligent in their cultivation and employ-
ment, will find an inviting and promising field of usefulness in this
Conference. It will be seen from the appointments for the current year
that several places are left " to be supplied" among the circuits, and one
district is without a Presiding Elder at its head.

The Rev. Drs. Hamilton and Sehon of Nashville, representatives of
the Tract and Missionary Societies, were in attendance ; and contributed
materially, by their sermons and addresses, to the interest of the occa-
sion. Spirited anniversaries of each of these Societies were held ; and
liberal collections were raised in aid of their important objects.

The Conference for 1857 will be held in Charleston, Kanawha county.

Below the appointments for the current year are given in a letter from
the Secretary of the Conference :

GlarTcsburg District. — W. Bickers, P. E.

Clarksburg and Monongahala, S. Lewis, J. A. West.

K. Vaught and B. F. Sedwick. Glenvillc, S. A. Rathbun.

West-Milford and Weston, P. H. Braxton, G. S. McCutchen.

Hoffman. Nicholas, E. Kendall.

Buchanan, S. H. Mullan. Mouth of Sandy, S. Black.

Parlcersburg District, — ^E. C. Thornton, P. E.

Parkersburg station, S, Kelly. Point Pleasant, J. F. Mcdly, H. S.

Little Kanawha, L. G. Woods. WiUiams.

Williamsport, "\7. Kennedy. Mason mission, (to be supplied.)

Ravenswood, W. Shearer. Charleston cfrcuit, J. N. Lillcy,

Ripley, A. W. Thompson. W. Briscoe, sup.

Spring Creek, J. A. Goff.

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Gh'eeribrier District. — G. B. Poage, P. E.

Charleston and Maiden, W. B.

McFarland.
Summerville, W. Dowtain.
Fayette, G. L. Warner, sup.
Greenbrier, J. Hank.
Raleigh circuit, C. F. Crooks.
Wyoming, (to be supplied.)

Logan, R. E. Graves.
Kanawha, S. Hargiss.
Falls of Guyandotte, W. S. May.
Newcastle and Newport, J. Brill

hart.
Monroe, (to be supplied.)
Covington, (to be supplied.)

Guyandotte District. — C. M. Sullivan, P. E.

Guyandotte and Marshall Academy,

S. T. MaUory.
Barboursville, W. H. Fonerden.
Wayne, B. Spurlock.
Louisa, J. W. Amiss.
Big Sandy, J. T. Johnson.
Catlettsburg and Ashland, W.

McComas.

Greenupsburg station, S. Field.

Greenupsburg circuit, R. Lan-
caster.

North-Liberty, J. Farmer.

Grayson, R. A. Claughton.

Paintsville and Peach Orchard, J.
H. Wright and R. N. Crooks.

Tug Fork, H. Moore.

IV. Kentucky Conference.

Bishop Early.— Sept. 17-23.
{From the Nashville Cliristian Advocate.']

Opened on the ITth September, in Winchester, Ky. Bishop Early
presiding. Rev. D. Stevenson, Secretary. Most of the preachers were
present; two had fallen asleep — Father Burke and Brother Dungan ;
they both died in full hope of heaven. Brother Stamper preached an
excellent funeral sermon in memory of these departed brethren ; the
Conference and spectators listened with deep attention, and witnessed
their feelings by tears of sorrow mingled with joy.

The year has been one of prosperity in Kentucky. We learn with
pleasure that the support of the preachers was more liberal than any
preceding year. The missionary and other collections are equal to the
past, and in some instances exceeding the contributions of last year.
The Anniversaries of the Tract, Missionary, and Sunday-School Socie-
ties, were very interesting. Drs. Hamilton, Sehon, and Huston were
all present, and each performed his labors with much ability, and all
uniting in the common cause of our cherished institutions. Dr. Linn
also took part in the public exercises of the Sunday-School Anniver-
sary, and made an excellent address. The collections were all good.
The preachers generally displayed a liberality in giving peculiar to Me-
thodist preachers everywhere ; some gave all they had, and borrowed
funds to defray their expenses home. The preaching of the word was
attended by large congregations, and some were added to the Church.
Altogetlier it was a delightful Conference, and tJie brethren went to

KENTUCKY CONFERENCE.

their fields of labor for another year with new zeal. We hope for a
prosperous season in Kentucky the present fall and winter. May thou-
sands be brought to Christ ! Connected with the body are many young
men, and men in the vigor of life, who can do much ; and they will now
step forward and do the work of their fathers with a zeal and an ability
which marked the pioneers of Methodism in Kentucky.

Appointments.

Lexington District.— J oni^i G. Bruce, P. E.

Lexington, John H. Linn.

Frankfort, John 0. Harrison.

"Versailles and Georgetown, Hart-
well J. Perry.

NicholasviUe, Wm. J. Snively.

Jessamine and Woodford, (to be
supplied.)

Vienna, (to be supplied.)

Winchester and Mount Zion, Henry

C. Northcott.
Paris and North-Middletown, John

R. Eads.
Mt. Sterling, Joseph Rand.
Oxford, Wm. W. Chamberlain.
Leesburg, Wm. G. Johns ; Samuel

Veach, supernumerary.

Earrodsburg District. — Jesse Bird, P. E.

Harrodsburg. Edmund P. Buck-
ner.

Danville, Lewis G. Hicks.

Perry ville, David Walk , John San-
dusky, supernumerary.

Lancaster, Thos. J. Godby.

Richmond, Daniel W. Axline.

Madison, Milton Mann and Oliver

W. Landreth.
Crab Orchard, John L. Gragg.
Somerset, (to be supplied.)
Salvisa, John M. Johnson.
Maxville, Lemuel D. Parker ; An-

selm Minor, supernumerary.

Shelhjville District— Wa. M'D. Abbett, P. E.

Shelbyville, John W. Cunningham.

Shelby circuit, John C. C. Thomp-
son ; John F. Vanpelt, super.

Simpsonville, Wm. C. Dandy.

Taylorsville, George W. Merritt.

Bloomfield, Wm. M. Grubbs.

Floydsburgh, Seraiah S. Deering.
James E. Nix, referred to the P. E.
Hamilton P. Johnson, referred to the P. E

Lagrange and Westport, George W.

Brush.
Newcastle and Bedford, Jeremiah

Strother.
Lockport, Peter E. Kavanaugh.
Lawrenceburg, Robt. T. P. Allen.
Anderson, Wm. T. Benton.

Covington District— Tnos. N. Ralston, P. E.

Covington, Scott St., John S. Bay-
less ; Orson Long, sup.

Newport, Daniel Stevenson; Geo.
W. Maley, sup.

x\lexandria, Williams B. Kava-
naugh.

Falmouth, Caleb T. Hill.

Millorsburgh, Thos. P. C. Shellman

Cynthiana, Joseph B. Smith.
Carlisle, Ephraim M. Cole.
CarroUton, (to be supplied.)
Warsaw, David B. Cooper.
Owenton and Eagle Creek Mission,

Thos. Rankin.
Crittenden, Wm. E. Willmott.
Burlington, Joel W. Ridgell.

Lorenzo B.' Huston, Editor of ITojur, Circle and Suiiday -School Visitor.

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Maysville District. — Robt. Hiner, P. E.

Maysville, Samuel L. Robertson.

"Washington and Germantown,
John C. Hardj.

Shannon and Sardis, Thos. P. Van-
meter.

Minerva, "Wm. C. Atmore.

Sardis circuit, Franklin T. Jolms.

Orangeburg, Seneca X. Hall.
Lewis, Wm. E. Littleton.
Flemingsburg, Jas. C. Minor.
Poplar Plains, Wm. M. Vize.
Sharpsburg, Jedediah Foster.
Owingsville, Leroy C. Danley.

West-Liberty District. — Elkanah Johnson, P. E.

PikevUle, George W. Smith.
Prestonsijurg, Hiram P. Walker.
Jackson mission, James A. Gragg.
West-Liberty mis., Jas. Randolph.

Irvine, Wm. H. Winter.

Letcher and Perry mission, (to be

supplied.)
Highland mission, Jesse B. Locke.

Barloursmlle District. — Wm. B. Landrum, P. E,

Barboursville and Manchester,

John S. Coxc.
London mission, Elias Botner.
Yellow Creek mis., (to be supplied.)

Mt. Pleasant mis., (to be supplied.)
Williamsburg mission, (to be sup-
plied.)
Mt. Vernon mis., (to be supplied.)

V. Missouri Conference.

Bishop Pierce. — Sept. 24.

The twelfth session of the Missouri Annual Conference commenced in
the city of Louisiana on the 24:th of September. Bishop Pierce was
present, and opened the session with reading the Scriptures, singing,
and prayer.

Seven were received into the travelling connection, and one was re-
admitted.

Six were admitted into fuU connection, and elected to deacon's orders.

Ten were ordained deacons, and four ordained elders on the Sab-
bath of the Conference.

The Conference seems to be largely engaged in the business of educa-
tion, as we learn from the reports of schools and colleges, male and
female, presented and acted upon during the session.

The editor of the St. Lotus Christian Advocate, who was present,
says :

" The session of the Missouri Conference was one of the most harmoni-
ous and pleasant we ever attended in any country. The good people of
Louisiana entertained the preachers and visitors with a kindness and
hospitality worthy of all praise ; and during the session, attended pub-
lic preaching more generally than we recollect to have noticed anywhere.
The preaching — that which it was our privilege to hear — was earnest,
searching, and apparently effective. The preachers generally seemed in
the spirit of their work, and like men resolved to do their duty."

MISSOUKI CONFERENCE.

The appointments for the year, copied from the same paper, are given
below :

Appoi7itments,

St. Charles District. — Andrew Monroe, P. E.

St. Charles, John W. Cook.
Warrenton, Arthur E. Sears.
Flint Hill, William A. Mayhew,

William M. Newland.
Danville, William Penn.
Eulton, George Fcntem.
Mexico, Horace Brown.
Middletown, Levi T. McNeily.

Auburn, Robert G. Loving.
Louisiana, Cornelius I. Vandeven-

ter.
Louisiana mission, (to be supplied,)
Paynesville and Clarkesville, Amb.

P. Linn.
William H. Anderson, President

St. Charles College.

Fayette District.— Patrick M. Pinckard, P. E., and Agent for

Central CoUege.

Fayette, James M. Green.
Columbia, Samuel W. Cope.
Rocheport, Benjamin F. Johnson.
Glasgow, Newton G. Berryman.
Iluntsville, James Penn.
Paris, W. M. Wood.
Florida, Samuel K. Fowler.

Bloomington, William Warren.
Kirksville mission, Isaac Naylor.
Mount Zion, Jesse Faubion.
Howard High School, C. W.

Pritchett.
Agent for Central College, William

C. Caples.

BrunswicTc District. — Wm. M. Rush, P. E.

Robert C. Hatton,
S. Ashby, supernu-

Brunswick,

Benjamin

merary.
Keytesville, Daniel H. Root.
Yellow Creek mis., Hiram A.Davis.
Hartford mis., John W. Maddox.
Linneus circuit, Thomas Hurst.

Trenton mission, Thos. D. Clan ton.
Milan circuit, William Shaw.
Chillicothc, Wesley G. MiUer.
Princeton mis., James B. Potter.
Spring Hill, WiUiam Ketron.
Carrolton, Daniel Penny, David R.
Shackleford.

Weston District. — William Perkins, P. E.

Weston, William H. Saxton.
Platte City, Willis E. Dockery.
Liberty and Richfield, Lilburn.

Rush.
Plattsburg, Robert H. Jordan,

Wm. A. Tarwater.
St. Joseph, Enoch K. Miller.

St. Joseph circuit, Jno. C.O.Davis.
Parkville, John W. Penn.
Richmond, Walter Toole.
Milville, William M. Sutton.
Plattsburgh High School, Levin
M. Lewis.

Savannah District. — Benjamin R. Baxter, P. E.

Savannah, Joseph DevUn, Henry

Craig

Oregon, Henry H. Hedgepeth.
Rockport, Joab Spencer.
Marysvillc, Samuel C. Littlepage.

Athens mission, William F. Bell.
Bethany, Robert A. Austin.
Maysville mission, Jephtha Tillery.
Gallatin mis., Middleton R. Jones.

22 THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Hannibal District. — Edwin Robinson, P. E.

Hannibal, Thomas Demoss. * Lancaster mis., Donison Mason.

Hydesburg, Lewis Baldwin, Mar- Alexandria mis., Alex. Spencer.

tin L. Eads, supernumerary. Monticello, Richard P. Holt.

Palmyra, Berry H. Spencer. Canton, G. Smith, and Agent for

Shelbyville, Geo. W. Rich, Ander- Canton Seminary.

son Crithiield. La Grange, Joseph S. Todd.
Edina, Lorenzo Newman.

Joseph M. Breeding transferred to Kansas Mission Conference, and
appointed to Ft. Scott.

Conference adjourned with the benediction.

VI. Louisville Conference.

Bishop Early. — Octobee 1-6.

The session of the Louisville Conference in Elizabethtown, which be-
gan October 1st, and ended October 6th, was exceedingly bright and
profitable. The Bishop's morning prayer-meetings have a iine effect
upon ministers and upon the community in which his conferences are
held. A number of persons have been converted, and joined the Church
on tliose occasions. "We have long desired to have more of the spirit-
ual elements incox'porated with the business concerns of our annual
convocations. The Baptist, Presbyterian, and Protestant Episcopal
churches in Elizabethtown were coin-teously opened to the ministers ; and
the pastors of the last two mentioned communions attended the Confer-
ence, and took great interest in the proceedings. The sessions were held
in the Baptist church. The hospitality of all classes was unbounded.
Such exhibitions of catholic feeling, in these days of rebuke and bigotry,
are truly refreshing. We feel very sure that Bishop Et^rly, and indeed
all our Bishops, will not fail to encourage and reciprocate those kindly
Christian courtesies. There was a considerable increase in the mem-
bership within the bounds of the Louisville Conference. Nine preach-
ers were admitted on trial, and seven into full connection ; $4008.85
were collected for missions, and $831.05 for tracts. The minutes show
a net increase of little over eleven hundred members, and the missionary
collections have increased some two thousand dollars over last year
All the financial interests are prospering. The education interests, too,
are becoming better. Drs. Sehon and Hamilton were present, advocat-
ing the interests which they respectively have in charge. They returned
with the Bishop, and make encouraging reports from Western Virginia
and Kentucky.

Aj^j^ointments.

Louisville District. — James H. Owen, P. E.

Louisville, Brook street, George W. Twelfth street and Green, Alexan-
Smilev. der McCown.

LOUISVILLE CONFEKENCE.

'>,S

Bethel, William Ilolman.
Jackson street, colored.
A\''alnut street, Sam. L. Adams.
Third street, (to be supplied.)
Eighth street and Center street,

James E. Dempsey.
Shelby street, Thomas Bottomly.
(xcrman, F, W. Treager.
Hancock and Asbury, James A.

Henderson, (one to be supplied.)

Portland and Shippingport, Thos.
G. Bosley.

Middletown, Francis A. Morris.

Mt. Washington and Jefferson-
town, Gideon Gooch.

Louisville circuit, James R. Aber-
nathy, E. D. Ncal, supernume-
rary.

Edward Stevenson, Book Agent.

Edmund AY. Sehon, Mis. Secret'y.

Bardstoicii District. — ^Alfred H. Redfokd, P. E.

Bardstownand Bardstown mission

M. N. Lastly.
Lebanon and Springfield, Jere

miah J. Talbot.
Bradfoi'dsville, Lsaac W. Emerson.
New-Haven, Benj. F. Wilson.
Big Spring, Dubartis F. Dempsey.

, Elizabethtown and Hodginsvilk-,
Schuyler L. Murrel
West-Point, Charles Y. Boggess.
Braudenburgh, Samuel D. Akin.
Millerstown, Eobert C. Alexander.
Campbellsville, James H. Bristow.
Thomas J. Moore, Tract Agent.

Hardinsburgh District — Nathaniel H. Lee, P. E.

Hardinsburgh circuit, Joseph D.

Barnett, James E. Bradley.
Hawesville, Joseph F. Bedford.
Owensboro', Artemas Brown.
Calhoun, George Crumbaugh.
Hartford, William Neikirk.
Morganficld, Hartwell T. Burge.
Eumsey, James S. McDaniel.
Henderson, William Eandolph.

Henderson circuit, James Morris.
Madisonville, William \{. Cook.
Green Eiver mission, Gabriel Har-

dison.
Litchvillc mission, Enoch M. Crow.
Eobert G. Gardner, Principal of

Hardinsburgh Mjile and Female

High School.

Smithland District. — Z. M. Taylor, P. E.

Smithland station, William Alex-
ander.
Dycursburgh, Thomas D. Lewis.
Marion, John J. Barnett.
Princeton, (to be supplied.)
Eddyville, Allison Akin.
Cadiz, John Randolph.

Empire Iron Works, William Chil-
ders.

Lafayette, James C. Petre.

Hopkinsville circuit, Eobert W.
Trimble, T. F. Johnson, super-
numerary.

HopTcinsville District. — Jabies S. Wools, P. E.

Hopkinsville and Garretsburgh,
Joseph W. Maxwell.

Christian mis., William W. Mann.

Russelville, Silas Lee, David Mor-
ton, supernumerary.

Elkton, "NVilliam H. Morrison.

Logan, Learner B. Davison.

Todd, Robert McCown.

Bowling Green, David D. Moore

Bowling Green circuit, Joseph S.
Scobee. ^

Greenville, Timothy C. Frogge.

Franklin, Abraham Quick.

Rochester mis., Henry C. McQuown.

James E. Cai-ncs, Principal of Rus-
selville Female Institute.

24 THE ANNUAL CONFEKENCES.

Glasgow District. — Robert Fisk, P. E.

Glasgow, George II. Hayes. Scottsville, Jacob P. Goodson.

Mammoth Cave mission, William New- Row, Thomas J. Mercer.

E. Edmunds, Columbia, Littlebury P. Crenshaw,

Liberty mission, Absalom Davis. Greenburg, Aaron Mooro.

Wayne, Bryant A. CundifF. Munfordsville, W. W. Lambutb,

Albany, Cornelius D. Donaldson. A. L. Aldcrson, supernumerary.
Tompkinsville, James W. Taylor.

Dummond Melboum, transferred to the Kentucky Conference.
Robert G. Loving transferred back to the Missouri Conference.
Ch. F. Quelmaltz to the Memphis Conference.
Next Conference to be at Smithland.

VII. St. Louis Conference,

Bishop Pierce. — Oct. 8.

The eleventh session of the St. Louis Annual Conference convened at
Charleston, Wednesday morning, October 8th, Bishop Pierce in the
chair.

The following brethren were admitted on trial : Wm. H. Porter, Man-
nen Duren, Joseph W. Lewis, D. W. Reese, David A. McKnight, Mar-
tin L. Maddy, John S. Spear, Dudley C. O'Howell, Jedediah B. Lan-
dreth, Lafayette M. Harris.

A. A. Morrison, (local elder,) late of Louisville Conference, and Fletch-
er Wells (local elder) were readmitted.

T. M. Finney and W. M. Prottsman were reelected members of the
Publishing Committee of the St. Louis Christian Advocate and Book
Depository.

The following brethren were examined, passed, and severally elected
to elder's orders : J. P. Nolan, John Whittaker, D. L. Myers, Turner
H. Smith, and G. M. Winton.

On Saturday morning the President introduced Rev. F. A. Owen,
who addressed the Conference with regai'd to the interests at Nashville.

The following brethren were admitted into full connection : William
M. Leftwich, John Thomas, David J. Marquis, William II. Mobley,
John C. Shackleford, David S. ProflBtt, John L. McFailand.

The following local preachers were elected to deacon's orders : Madi-
son Adams, John Coff, W. Watts, John Atherton, Calloway Sizcmore,
J. W. Ritchey, Lanson Thompson, L. M. Harris.

And the follovv^ing to elder's orders : Josiah McCary, R. H. Lea, Isaac
N. Thompson,

COMMITTEES OF EXAMINATION.

First year — H. N. Watts, Joseph Dines, A. M. Rader.
Second year — T. M. Finney, J. P. Nolan, A. Hawkins.
Third year— J. P. Truslow, G. M. Winton, J. H. lleadley.
Fourth year — C. B. Parsons, E. M. Marvin, J. Boyle.

ST. LOUIS CONFEEENCK.

VISITING COMMITTEES.

;Sr*. Charles College— Y,. M. Marvin, J. 0. Shackleford, W. M. Left-

wicli
Arcadia High School— So&Q^h Dines, Thomas James, M. R. Anthony.

The following are the

Appointments.

St. Louis District.— RoBET&T A. Young, P. E.

Oak Hill and County Farm, John
Whittaker.

St. Louis circuit, Thomas M. Fin-
ney.

Manchester circuit, Jacob Ditzler,
(one to be supplied.)

D. R. McAnally, editor St. Louis
Christian Advocate.

J. P. Nolan, Agent Bible Society,
and attached to Quarterly Con-
ference of Centenary Church.

First Church, Charles B. Parsons.

Centenary, Enoch M. Marvin.

Mound, WilUam M. Leftwich.

Asbury, Joseph Boyle.

Wesley Chapel, Alvin Rucker.

Sixteenth street, John C. Shackle-
ford.

Christy Chapel and Grand Avenue,
Edwin H. White.

Bremen mission, William R. Bab-
cock.

Cape Girardeau District. — ^Wesley Browning, P. E.
Cape Girardeau circuit, Henry S. New-Madrid and colored mission,

Manson R. Anthony, John
Thomas, Jesse H. Gumming.

Wolf Island, James V. Hedenberg.

Charleston, Josiah McCary.

Benton, David L. Myers.

Arcadia High School, Jerome C.
Berryman, Supt.

Watts.

Ste. Genevieve circuit, James Gum-
ming.

Hillsboro' circuit, John L. McFar-
land.

Potosi circuit, Joseph Dines.

Fredricktown circuit, Thomas
James.

Boonville District.—DAmEi. A. Leeper, P. E.

Boonville station, A. A. Morrison. Jefferson circuit, Martin E. Paul.

Arrow Rock circuit, Warren Jefferson City station, John H.

Wharton Headlee.

Sahne circuit, Nathaniel M. Talbott. California circuit, John D. Read.

Georgetown circuit, Josiah Godbey. BeU Air cu-cuit, George M. Wm-

Versailles circuit, J. B. H. Wool- ton.

dridge.

Lexington District.— Wn. M. Prottsman, P. E.

Lexington station, (to be supplied.) Wellington circuit, Wm. ^ Brown.

Independence station, John T. HarrisonviUe circuit, W. H. Mobly,

Pgei-y John W. Bond.

Westport and Kansas, Alfred H. Columbus circuit, S. S. Colburn

PQ^gU Warrensburg circuit, William H.
Independence circuit, Henry W. Porter. , ^, ^ .

Webster, M. G. I^IcMillan. Dover circuit, Joseph W . Lewis.

26 THE ANNUAL CONFEKENCES.

Warsaw District. — Robert A. Foster, P. E.

Warsaw circuit, Joseph Bond. Lamar mission, (to be supplied.)

Deep water circuit, Warren M. Fremont clr., Samuel S. Headlee.

Pitts. Osceola, William S. Woodward,

West-Point circuit, Fletcher Wells. Buffalo, John Monroe, Mannen
Nevada circuit, David S. Proffitt. Duren.

Springfield District. — ^Thomas T. Ashby, P. E.

Springfield station, John W. Neosho circuit, Joseph 0. Woods.

Hawkins. Cassville mission, Milton Adkisson.

Springfield circuit, James M. Mc- Ozark circuit, James C. Tomson.

Ghee. Forsyth mission, John C. Thomp-

Bohvar circuit, Nathaniel B. Peter- son.

son. Hartsville circuit, Arthur Hawkins,

Mt. Vernon circuit, Thomas Smith. W. C. O'Howell.
Carthage circuit, Andrew M.Rader.

Steelville District. — James R. Bcrk, P. E.

Steelville circuit, Howell E. Smith. Lebanon circuit, Marcus Arrington.

Richwoods circuit, Wm. A. Rice, Robodoux mission, Thomas Glan-

(one to be supplied.) ville.

Union circuit, J. N. W. Springer, Houston, Lafayette M. Harris,

M. L. Maddy. John S. Spears.

Linn circuit, David J. Marquis. Salem, Green Woods.
Vienna circuit, Daniel A. McKnight.

Greenmlle District.— Joms L. Burchard, P. E.

Greenville circuit, Henry N. Watts. Doniphan, William Gfriffin.

Bloomfield circuit, William Alex- Thomasville, Travis O. Smith, Jas.

ander. Copeland, sup.

Grand Prairie circuit, Pinckney West-Plains mission, Jedediah B.

L. Turner. Landreth.

Dallas circuit. Turner H. Smith, Oak Ridge mission, John C. Wil-

David W. Reese. liams.

Poplar Bluff mission, Jonathan M. Eminence mission, Edmund Garri-

Wheeler. son.
Centerville mis., (to be supplied.)

John F. Truslow, Agent Central College, Independence Quarterly
Conference.

F. M. WiUiams transferred to Kansas Conference, and appointed to
Kickapoo circuit.

TENNESSEE CONFERENCE. 27

Vin. Tennessee Coneeeence.

Bishop Andrew. — Oct. 8-16.

The session was held at Huntsville, Ala. At the anniversary Mission-
ary Meeting the audience was immense, and a deep, thrilhng interest
filled the hearts of the people. Addresses were made by Dr. Jeiferson
Hamilton, and by Dr. McFerrin. The amount in cash and subscriptions
realized on the occasion was about twelve hundred dollars. Well done !
The report of the Conference Treasurer shows an increase in the col-
lections throughout the Conference. The anniversary exercises of the
Conference Tract Society were held in the presence of a large audience.
The Kev. Dr. J. Hamilton, Corresponding Secretary of the Tract Society,"
IJishop Andrew, and the Rev. Dr. Green, were the speakers on the occa-
sion. It was a deeply interesting meeting. We understand that about
the sum of three hundred dollars was given to the Tract cause by the
congregation.

The following important resolutions were adopted by a large majority,
and the contemplated committee appointed, and Dr. M. Henkle consti-
tuted the agent to secure the endowment fund :

''Whereas, The General Conference of 1854 recommended to the col-
leges and schools under our care, the establishment of a department of
Biblical Literature and Ecclesiastical History, as a part of the regular
course of study ;

"■Resolved, That the Tennessee Annual Conference cordially approve
the recommendation, as being in conformity with the course pursued by
Mr. Wesley, Bishops Coke and Asbury, and in harmony with the usage
of the primitive Church from the apostolic age, and as being calculated
to produce a well-indoctrinated and stable membership, and an intelli-
gent and useful ministry ; and will cooperate in an endeavor to establish
one or more such departments of instruction.

''Resolved, fhat such departments of sacred learning should be so
endowed that no charge shall be made for the instructions therein im-
parted, either to regular course students, or to irregulars, who may re-
ceive instruction in those departments only.

"Resolved, Thatanagent.be appointed to secure the necessary en-
dowment fund, under the direction of a committee of five, who shall have
power to regulate the agent's compensation and general mode of action,
to determine the location and connection of the proposed chair or de-
partment, and in connection with the trustees of such institution as they
may select, to appoint a professor ; and to put the department into ope-
ration when they may deem it expedient to do so.

"Resolved, That it is not intended by this action to favor either di-
rectly or indirectly, the establishment of a theological school, nor to make
tlie course of Biblical literature exclusive, but to have it a part of the re-
gular course."

The close of the session is thus described by the Rev. W. C. Johnson,
the Secretary, in a communication to the Nashville Advocate:

"The venerable senior Superintendent, Bishop Soule, addressed thy
preachers in a most solemn and affecting spirit, as though he were uttoi--

28 THK AN^a•AL CONFERENCES.

ing his last words to his children in the ministry, and closed with a
prayer to God for the preservation of a pure and faithful ministry in the
Tennessee Conference.

" The minutes were read and approved, when Bishop Andrew, after
a few suitable remarks, announced the appointments of the preachers
for another year.

" So closed our session, protracted and laborious, but harmonious in
spirit and delightful in feeling. An unusual baptism of the Holy Spirit
seemed to rest upon the preachers. Generally, they were very happy
and devoted to the work — ' careful for nothing' — trusting in God — will-
ing to labor wherever they might be sent, in the name of the Lord. A
more entire yielding of personal interest and preference, and a more per-
fect reliance upon the appointing power of the Church under God, perhaps
has not been witnessed for many years among the preachers. Oh ! for
a glorious and extensive revival of scriptural Christianity during the
ecclesiastical year just commenced! May the people receive the
preachers as the Angels of the Lord !

"There is room to add only that the preaching during the session
was not without fruit. Souls were converted. Prayer-meeting at sun-
rise was a new feature among us, or rather, an old custom fitly revived.
It was greatly blessed. The last morning especially was an occasion of
absorbing interest. There were about a score of persons at the altar,
seeking the pardon of their sins, and Christians were wonderfully re-
newed in the spirit of their minds. It was announced that the services
at the Methodist church would be protracted after the adjournment of
the Conference, and we hope to learn soon that a general revival influ-
ence has followed the session of the Conference in the beautiftd and
highly -favored city of Huntsvillc."

By later intelligence from Huntsville, we learn that Bishop Andrew
remained there until the Monday succeeding the Conference, laboring
most efficiently in the revival. The work had been deepening and
widening, and there had been over one hundred conversions, including
twenty blacks.

Appointments.

Nashville Dktrict. — Wm. D. F. Sawrie, P. E.

Nashville, McKendree, Adams S. Nashville, colored charge, Thos.

Riggs. N. Lankford.

Nashville, Ani^rew, Caleb B. Davis. Nashville, German mission, Philip

Nashville, Spruce street, Wm. R. Barth.

Warren. Nashville circuit, Wm. P. Hickman.

Nashville, Elysian Grove, Wm. Harpeth, John G. Ray.

Large. Franklin station, Welborn Mooney.

Edgefield District. — ^Alex. L. P. Green, P. E.

Hobson, Saml. D. Baldwin, F. E. Wliite's Creek, John K. Woodson,

Pitts, sup. Jos. S. Malone, sup.

Edgefield charge and city mission, Drake's Creek miss., Mortimer B.

Wm. C. Johnson, John A. EUis, Pearson.

Elisha Carr, sup. Sycamore miss., Abraham B. Coke.

TKNNESSEE CONFERENCE.

Fountain Head, Wm. Randle.

J. B. McFerrin, editor of Rashville Christian Advocate^ and member
of Quarterly Conference for Hobson charge.

Lebanon District. — Lewis C. Bryan, P. E.

Lebanon station, Simon P. Whit- Gallatin station, Robt. 0. Hatton.

ten, John Kelley, sup. Goose Creek, Joel Whitteu, John

Lebanon circuit, Jos. Willis. A. Edmonson.

Union, David C. Kelley. Woodbury, John W. Judd.

Shady Grove, Nimrod A. Keyes, Mill Creek, Mark W. Gray, (one to

Russell Eskew, sup. be supplied.)
Sumner cir., and African miss., Bur-

kett F. Ferrel, Lewis H. Grubbs.

Carthage District. — Ferdinand S. Petway, P. E.

Carthage, Danl. P. Searcy.
Wartrace, Jos. B. Allison, Saml.

W. Moorland, sup.
Smith's Fork, John C. Putnam,

George L. Staley, Absalom H.

Reams, sup.
Cumberland, John W. -Tarrant,

Carna Freeman.

Livingston, Wm. H. Nichols.
Mt. Pisgah, Wm. H. Riggan.
Sparta circuit, Robt. S. Hunter.
White Plains miss., Sam. E. Ran-
dolph, Wm. Jared, sup.
Short Mountain, Jas. A. Walkup.

McMinnville District. — Wm. Doss, P. E

Sparta station, Wm. C. Haislip. Winchester station, Francis A.

Hickory Creek, Geo. D. Guinn, Kimbal.

Benj. F. Humphries, Isaac C. Winchester circuit, Wm. H. Antho-

' Woodward, sup. ny, John J. Pittman, sup.

McMinnville station, Jerome B. An- Salem, Daniel A. Jones, John R.

derson. Abernathy.

Bedford, John J. Comer, John B. Camden mission, Jas. H. Campbell.

Stevenson, sup. Fayetteville station, Marcus G.

Tullahoma, Jesse J. Ellis, Allen Williams.

Tribble, sup.

Murfreesboro' District. — Saml. S. Moody, P. E.

Murfreesboro' station, Wm. G. Dor- Rich Valley, Sterling G. Cherry.

Rock Creek, Rob. M. Haggard,
Lloyd Richardson, sup.

Cornersville station, Zachariah Par-
ker, Jas. R. McClure, sup.

Fayetteville circuit, Ed. W. Cole-
man.

Stone's River African mission, Wm.
P. Shaw.

ris, Abraham Overall, sup.

Stone's River, Jos. E. White, El-
bert J. Allen, sup.

Middleton, Alfred D. Parker, Jos.
S. Malone, C. B. Paris, sup.

ShelbyviUe station, Perry M. Ste-
phens, Thomas B. Marks, sup.

ShelbyviUe University, Alex. L.
Hamilton.

THE ANNUAL CONFEEENCES.

Jluntaville District. — Thos. W. Randle, P. E.

Huntsville station, Alex. R. Erwin.
Huntsville Female College, Geo. M.

Everhart.
Madison, Thos. Wainwright, Rob.

G. Linn, Ambrose F. Driskill,

sup.
Madison African mission, Wm. P.

Warren.
Maysville station, Phil. L. Hender-
son, Jas. T. Bartee, sup.
Vienna, Milus E. Johnston, Thos.

H. Woodward, sup.
Claysville mission, Cincinnatus V.

Meador.

Marshall, Francis M. Hickman.

Larldnsville, Benj. A. Simms.

Bellefonte, Ed. P. Anderson.

Limestone, Wm. G. Hensley, Ster-
ling H. Brown, Henry P. Tur-
ner.

Athens station, Richard P. Ran-
som, Jas. W. Allen, sup.

Tennessee Conference Female In-
stitute, (to be supplied.)

Limestone African mission, Arthur
W. Smith.

Tmcunibia District. — Thos. Maddin, P. E.

Tuscumbia station, John R. Har-
well.

Chickasaw, Martin Clark, Justi-
nian Williams, sup.

Frankfort mission, Andrew J. B.
Foster.

Russellville, Moses L. Whitten.

Franklin circuit, Geo. W. Winn,

(one to be supplied.)
Morgan, Geo. W. Russell.
Decatur station, Rob. A. Wilson.
Somerville, John N. Allen.
Trinity, John S. Marks.

Florence District. — William H. Browning, P. E.

Florence station, John Mathews.
Cypress, Elias M. Bader, W. G.

Davis, sup.
Reserve, Jas. H. Richey.
Savannah, David H. Merriman,

Matt. H. Fielding.
Pulaski station, Wm. Burr, G. D.

Taylor, sup.

Waterloo, Henry C. Wheeler.
Shoal, James L. Coleman.
Prospect, Wm. R. J. Husbands,

Aaron J. Gillmore, sup.
Richland, John Sherrill, Geo. S.

AUen.
Florence Wesleyan University,

Richard H. Rivers.

Columbia District. — John F. Hughes, P. E.

Columbia station, Isaac Milner,
John B. Hamilton, sup.

Duck River, Jos. M. P. Hickerson,
Wm. H. Wilkes, sup.

Lawrenceburg, Coleman A. Har-
well.

Lynville, John S. Williams, Spen-
cer C. Dickson.

Lewisburg station, Samuel D. Og-
burn.

Mt. Pleasant, Harrison A. Graves.

Spring Hill station, Jas. D. Bar-
bee, Rob. G. Irvine, sup.

Spring Hill circuit, Nathan R. Ga-
bard, Henry E. Poarch.

Wesley, Carrol C. Mayhew, John
McCurdy, sup.

Tennessee Conference Female Col-
lege, Jared 0. Church

KANSAS CONFERENCE. 31

Oentreville District. — Ab. F. Lawrence, P. E.

Centreville, Geo. W. Brown. Waverly, John A. Coxe, Thomas

Swan, Jesse Luter. F. Brown.

Wayne, John T. W. Davis, Yellow Creek, And. J. Wooldridge.

Linden mission, Thaddeus S. Duffel. Dover, Eob. T. McBride.

Piney mission, John H. Reynolds.

ClarJcsville District. — John W. Hanner, P. E.

Clarksville station, Alpheus Mizell, Dickson, Jos. 0. Myres, ^Vm. T.

Jos. B. West, sup. Dye, Jordan Moore, sup.

Clarksville circuit, Thos. J. Neely, Asbury, Robertson L. Fagan.

Jos. D. Gwinn, sup. Red River, John A. Jones.

Montgomery, Isaac B. Walton. Springfield station, Jeremiah W.
Cumberland Iron Works station, Cullom.

Jos. J. Pitts.

Garrett W. ^lartin. Agent for the American Bible Society.

Moses H. Henkle, Agent for Endowment Fund of Chair of Biblical
Literature and Ecclesiastical History in Florence Wesleyan University.

Golman Green, Agent for Tennessee Conference Tract Society.

John W. Timberlake, Jas. M. Wright, Joseph H. Stone, are trans-
ferred to Florida Conference.

Benj. F. White, Thos. B. AYhite, Elam A. Stevenson, are transferred
to Louisiana Conference.

Superannuated Precocherg. — John Page, Rob. C. Jones, Stanford Las-
siter, David W. Thompson, and Wm. J. Cooley.

Located. — Anderson G. Copeland, David R. Hooker, and Milton P.
Brown.

Next Conference to be held at Murfi-eesboro', Tenn.

' IX. Kansas Conference.*

Bishop Pierce. — Sept. 12.

The St. Louis Christian Advocate gives the proceedings of the first
session of this body at Kickapoo, 12th September, Bishop Pierce pre-
siding. N. Scarritt was elected Secretary.

On the call of the roll the following members answered to their names :
Thomas Johnson, Nathan Scarritt, Adonijah Williams, Charles Boles,
Nathan T. Shaler and Nathaniel M. Talbott. During the morning, Wm.
Bradford also appeared and took his seat. Quite a number of proba-
tioners and visiting ministers were present.

Elam S. Arrington was admitted on trial fi-om Fort Scott Quarterly
Conference. Also John P. Barneby from Pottawottomie.

Cyrus R. Rice was admitted into full connection.

John Hale was continued on trial ; also Joseph H. Pritchett.

Claiborne Jones was discontinued.

♦ This Conference is numbered according to its place in the Plan of Episcopal Visitation.
Hence ita apparent want of chronological arrangement with the other Conferences. Mr.
Bcarritt'a resolution refers to the civil disorders at that time disturbing nil Kansas.

32 THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

We should judge times were portentous from the following:
"A preamble and resolutions were introduced by N. Scarritt, tender-
ing our thanks to our friends in AVeston, Mo., for the kind invitation
they have sent us to adjourn the session of our Conference to their city ;
and resolving that, though we deem it our duty to stand our ground
and remain in this place until we have transacted the necessary busi-
ness of the Conference, yet we will, if practicable, close our session by
Saturday, 4 o'clock P.M., with the view of spending the Sabbath in
Weston. Passed unanimously."

Next Conference is to be held at Leavenworth City. On Saturday
afternoon the Bishop, after an appropriate address, announced the

Appointments.

Lecompton District. — Wm. Bradford, P. E., and Agent for Fort Snell-

ING Seminary.

Tecumseh mission, J. G. Eice, (one Neosho mission, John P. Barneby.

to be supplied.) Council Grove mission, Joseph H.

Pottawottomie mission, Elam S. Pritchett.

Arrington, (one to be supplied.) Santa Fe mission, (to be supplied.)
Sugar Creek mission, John Hale. Ashland mission. Learner B. State-
Fort Scott mission, Cyrus K. Rice. . ler.

Kiclcapoo District. — Nathan Scarritt, P. E.

Shawnee Manual Labor School, Doniphan mission, (to be supplied.)
Thomas Johnson. Kickapoo mission, (to be suppUed.)
Shawnee mission, Charles Boles. Big Blue mission, (to be supplied.)
Wyandott mission, (to be suppHed.) Mt. Pleasant mission, (to be sup-
Delaware mission, Wm. Barnett. plied.)

Leavenworth city mission, Adoni- Grasshopper mission, (to be sup-

jah Williams. plied.)

N. M. Talbott and Joseph 0. Woods transferred to the St. Louis Con-
ference.

N. p. Shaler, superannuated and attached to Kickapoo Mission Quar-
terly Conference.

On motion, the Conference finally adjourned with the benediction of
Bishop Pierce.

This Mission Conference forgot not the cause that sustains it. Its
Treasurer reports :

Amount from Kickapoo district, $268 00

Collection at Kickapoo, 11 00

From Lecompton district, 37 00

Amount subject to order per draft $216 00

In addition to the above there are in the hands of Bro. Bradford

of the appropriations of last year not used, $475 00

Also in the hands of Bro. Scarritt 50 00

525 00

Which added to the above gives the aggregate, subject to the

order of $841 00

MEMPHIS CONFEBENCi:.

X. Memphis Conference.

Bishop Early. — October 15.

The seventeenth session of the Memphis Annual Conference met in
Jackson, Tenn. Oct. 15, 1856. Bishop Early, being on his first visit,
was introduced to the Conference by George W. D. Harris.

The following were received on trial :

Romulus S. Swift, DecaturviUe cir-
cuit.

Matthew T. D. Fly, CoflfeeviUe cir-
cuit.

George B. Barton, Oxford cir-
cuit.

Whitnel P. Kimble, Marshall cir-
cuit,

Roddick P. Harris, Holly Springs.

Joseph Evans, from Asbury cha-
pel, Memphis.

James W. Kirk, Concordia circuit.

Francis A. Wilkerson, Denmark
circuit.

TUman Page, "Wesley circuit.

Redin 0. White, Cageville circuit.

JohnW.Medlin, ^ j^^^^^^

Wm. C. Green, V .^^^^

Hillen A. Bourland, )

Thos. B. Davidson, Asbury chapel, Memphis, (elder,) was read-
mitted.

Also, Clement C. Glover, an elder, located at the session of this Con-
ference last November, was readmitted.

Four of the brethren have fallen this year, namely : Alexander C.
Chisholm, L. B. King, W. W. Peoples, and W. C. Rozzell. Fourteen
have been admitted on trial, and three readmitted.

The various interests of the Church within our bounds are in a pros-
perous condition. Drs. Hamilton and McFcrrin have ably represented
the Tract cause and our publishing interests. Bishop Early leaves for
the North- Carolina Conference. " Many shall run to and fro, and know-
ledge shall be increased." Many souls have been converted during the
Conference session.

The next Conference will be held in Holly Springs, Miss.

Appointments.
Memphis District. — W. 0. Robb, P. E.

Memphis "Wesley chapel and col-
ored mission, J. N. Temple, (mis-
sion to be supplied.)

Asbury chapel, T. P. Tuggle.

Asbury colored mission, Thos. P.
Davidson.

Davidson's chapel mission, and
Price's chapel miss., C. Qucllmals.

Hernando circuit, B. T. Crouch,
Joseph Evans, W. W. McAnally.

Hernando station, E. J. "Williams.

Friars' Point and Coomerce mis-
sion, T. T. Smothers, Reddin 0.
White, and J. W. Kirk.

Concordia, Abner P. Sage.

Randolph circuit, R. S. Harris.

Randolph colored mission, J. A.
Campbell.

Chulahoma circuit, R. L. Andrews,
J. H. Cooper.

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Hernando colored mission, (to be Chulahoma colored mission, K J,

supplied.) Carter.

Forest chapel and Edgwood, L. D. F. A. Owen, Book Agent.

MoUins.

S. Watson, editor Memphis, Arkansas, and OuacMta Christian Ad-
vocate.

Grenada District. — W. H. Leigh, P. E.

Grenada station, J. T. TV. Aiild.

Grenada circuit and colored mis.,
R. H. Burns and S. W. Moore.

Calhoun circuit, J. M. Hampton,

CofFeeville circuit and mission, B.
Martin, T. Page.

Charleston circuit and colored mis-
sion, A. B. Ely.

Panola circuit and colored mission,
W. H. Frost.

Oxford station, L. H. Davis.

Oxford circuit and colored" mission,
S. S. Scott and M. D. Fly.

Belmont circuit, C. B. Harris, R.
P. Harris, and J. W. Bates, su-
pernumeraries.

Aberdeen District. — J. H. Beooks, P. E.

Aberdeen station and colored mis-
sion, J. Moss, A. Lee, supernu-
numerary.

Aberdeen circuit, "W. T. Harris.

Prairie colored mission, S. Moss,
A. Lea, supernumerary.

Houston, circuit, H. M. Ford, Ho-
race Jewel.

Okolona circuit and colored mis-
sion, T. J. Lowry.

Richmond circuit, K. Adams.

Fulton circuit, J. S. Smotherman.

CarroUville circuit, C. J. Mauldin.

Pontotoc station, A. J. See.

Pontotoc circuit, W. S. Jones, A.
C. Smith,

Holly Springs District. — M. J. Blackwell, P. E.

Holly Springs station and colored
mission, A. J. Kendall and 0. J.
Allen, supernumerary.

Holly Springs circuit, J. E. Doug-
las and Wm. McMahon, sup.

Holly Springs colored mission, L.
B. Carson.

Marshall circuit, T. Joyner and G.
K. Brooks.

Marshall colored mission, W. R.
Dickey.

Hickory Flat circuit, J. B, Harris.

Salem circuit and colored mission,

J. Greer and W. P. Kimble.
Hipley circuit, F. M. Morris.
Rienzi circuit, James Gaines and

H. B. Covington.
Jacinto circuit, R. G. Rancy, J. P.

Webb, supernumerary.
Eastport station, J. H. Garrett,
Eastport circuit, J. W. Pincr.
Middleton circuit, A. S. Hamilton.
P. E. Echols, President of Byhalia.

Female Institute.

Sommerville District. — G, W. D. Harris, P. E,

Sommerville station, A. R. Wilson,
R. V. Taylor, supernumerary.

Somerville circuit, Finley Binuni
and F. A. Wilkerson.

Sommerville circuit and colored
mission, James Perry.

Brownsville circuit, C. C. Glover
and J. S. Harris, R. Gregory,
sup ernumerary.

Brownsville col. miss., F. L. Steel.

Denmark circuit, Bryant Medlin
Mid E. L. Fisher.

MEMPHIS CONFEEENCE.

Wesley circuit, T. L. Boswell and
J. G. Acton, J. T. Baskerville,
supernumerary.

Wesley colored mission, J. L. Cul-
pepper.

Brownsville station, A. H. Thomas.

Lagrange station, J. W. Knott.

Lagrange circuit, E. T. T. Hart and
J. A. Mason, W. N. Morgan, su-
pernumerary.

Lagrange colored mission, J. W.
Walkup.

JacTcHon District, E. C. Slater, P. E.

Jackson station, J. T. C. Collins.

Jackson colored mission, (to be
supplied.)

Jackson circuit, Elias Jackson.

Cagerville circuit, N. P. Ramsey
and A. G. Davie.

Mt. Pinson circuit, Joseph John-
son, G. B. Barton.

Decaturville circuit, Henry Bell.

Lexington circuit, P. J. Kelsey.

Morgan's Creek mission, E. S.
Swift.

Adamsville circuit, T. G. Lane.

Rock Spring circuit, S. W. Car-
son.

Montezuma circuit, J. A. Fife.

A. W. Jones, President Memphis
Conference Female Institute.

Lorenzo Lea, Professor in West-
Tennessee College.

Paris District. — Nathan Sullivan, P. E.

Paris station, W. D. F. Hafford.
Paris circuit, N. A. D. Bryant, J.

W. Medlin.
Camden circuit, R. W. Ayers.
Huntingdon circuit, R. A. Um-

stead.
Trenton station, J. T. Merri wether.
Trenton circuit, D. C. McCutchen

and J. H. McCulloch, M. H.

Neal, supernumerary.

Dyersburg station, E. H. Hamil-
ton, R. M. Tarrant, supernu-
merary.

Dyersburg circuit, John Randall
and B. H. Bishop.

Dresden station, J. M. Spence.

Dresden circuit, R. Alpin and Wm.
Harrison.

G. Jones, President Andrew Col-
lege.

Paducah District. — H. D. Howell, P. E.

Paducah station, James M. Scott.
Paducah mission, A. L. Hunsaker.
Paducah circuit, John H. Witt.
Clinton circuit, J. B, McCutchen

and J. Borland.
Aickman station, Thos. J. Gooch.
Madrid Bend, S. R. Walker.

Obion circuit, Elias Tidwell, sup.

Hickman circuit, Simpson Weaver.

Maury circuit, Manlip D. Robin-
son and W. C. Green.

Benton circuit, Wm. T. Mulligin.

Birmingham circuit, E. B. Plum-
raer.

T. A. Ware transferred to Ouachita Conference.

J. W. Johnson and Daniel McBride transferred to Louisiana Confer-

ence.

Wm. Sheppard transferred to Alabama Conference.
G. F. Thompson transferred to Mississipi Conference.
The next Conference will meet at Holly Springs.

36 THE ANNUAL CONFEEENCES.

XI. HoLSTON Conference.

Bishop Andrew.-— October 22-28.

The territory of this body embraces South-western Virginia, Eastern
Tennessee, and Western North- Carolina. Its annual session, just closed,
was held in Knoxville, Tenn., commencing on Wednesday, the 22d of
October, and ending on Tuesday evening, the 28th.

Bishop Andrew presided over the Conference. Bishop Early, on his
return home fi*om the Memphis Conference, spent several days with the
Holston Conference. The session was a quiet and harmonious one, il-
lustrating the loveliness of Christian union and brotherly love. " How
good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!"

The next Conference will be held at Marion, Smythe county, Va.

Ap2)ointme?its.

Wyth&oille District. — Joseph Haskew, P. E.

Wytheville station, J. M. McTeer. Princeton, J. P. Gibson.

Wytheville cu-cuit, A. G. Worley, Hillsville, D. P. Hunt.

J. Torbett. Grayson, C. Mitchell.

Pearisburg, George Steward, Marion, J. C. Hyden.

Newbern, W. M. Kerr, Jefierson, W. K. Foster.

Mechanicsburg, B. F. White. Flat Top miss., (to be suppUed.)

Abingdon District. — F. M. Fanning, P. E.

Abingdon station, W. H. Bates. Jeflfersonville, J. Boring.

Abingdon circuit, J. M. Crismond. Sandy River mission, G. W.

Saltville, H. P. Waugh. Smith.

Lebanon, W. F. Parker. Emory and Henry College, E. E.

EstiUville, W. Ingle. Wiley, President; J. A. Davis,

Grass River circuit and Russell Professor ; G. W. Alexander,

mission, L. Delashmit, (one to Agent.

be supplied.) Blountville Masonic Institute, W.

Blountville, G. W. Miles, M. H. W. Neal, President.

Spencer.

Knoxville District. — R. M. Stephens, P. E.

Knoxville station, E. C. Wexler. Sevierville, M. P. Swaim,

East-Knoxville and colored charge, Little River, R. M. Whaley.

W. Whitcher. Clinton, A. M. Goodykoontze.

Knoxville circuit, J. G. Swisher, Jacksboro', P. H. Reed.

R. K. Scruggs. J. B. Little, Agent for Strawberry
Dandridge circuit, J. N. S. HufiFaker. Plains College.

HOLSTON CONTEEENCE. 37

Cumberland District. — D. Fleming, P. E.

"Washington cir., J. "W. Williamson. Cumberland mission, Rowan Clear.
Hamilton, John AUey. Jamestown circuit, L. M. Renfrow.
Pikeville, G. W. Penley. Montgomery mission, H. Rule.
Jasper, John Spears. Huntsville mission, (to be sup-
Spencer mission, J. T. Stansbury. plied.)

Athens District. — T. K. Munsey, P. E.

Athens station, P. S. Phillips. Philadelphia, W. H. H. Duggan.

Athens circuit, C. Long. Loudoun, (to be supphed.)

Decatur, W. C. Munsey. Marysville, John H. Bruner.

Madisonville, R. A. Giddens, A. Kingston, J. W. Dickey.
Greer.

Rogersville District. — R. M. Hickey, P. E.

Rogersville circuit, W. C. Graves, Tazewell station, C. Godby.

J. T. Freeman. Sneedville circuit, W. W. Smith.

Kingsport, J. T. Smith. Rutledge, P. S. Sutton.

Jonesville, Wm. Wyatt. MorristowTi, L. C. Waters.
Tazewell, H. West.

Chattanooga District. — E. F. Seviek, P. E.

Chattanooga station, William H. Charleston, B. W. S. Bishop, S. W.

Kelly. Crouch, supernumerary.

Morristown circuit, R. A. Wilson. Benton, W. Ballenger.

Cleveland station, R. N. Price. Ducktown, C. T. McDonel.

Cleveland circuit, J. A. Hyden. Ocoee mission, J. S. Edwards.

Ashemlle District.— R. W. Patty, P. E.

Asheville station, E; E. Gillenwa- Sulphur Springs, J. D. Baldwin.

ters. WaynesviUe circuit, A. F. English.

Reem's Creek circuit, E. Conner. Webster and Eshota mission, J. W.
Hendersonville, J. R. Long, Wm. Bird, J. B. Foster.

Hicks, supernumerary. Franklin circuit, A. Gass.

Catauba, Wm. Howell. Coleman Campbell, Agent for Hol-
BurnsvUle, G. M. Massey. ston Conference Female College.

Joneshoro' District. — W. C. Daily, P. E.

Jonesboro' station, T. J. P. Pope. St. Clair, D. B. Carter.

Jonesboro' circuit, W. Robinson. Taylorsville, E. Woodard.

Fall Branch, J. R. Stradley. Watauga mission, T. M. Dula.

Greenville, J. Reynolds, George Elizabethton circuit, A. Copeland.

Creamer. Newport, (to be supplied by J.
Rheatown, Wm. Milburn. Milburn.)

J. Atkins, agent for A. B. Society.

W. H. Rogers, agent for Tract Society.

W. G. E. Cunnyngham, missionary to China.

38 THE ANNUAL CONFERENCJES.

XII. Indian Mission Conference.

From the Nashville Christian Advocate we learn that the Indian
Mission Conference closed a very pleasant and harmonious session on
the 25th of October. Bishop Paine did not arrive till the Conference
closed, owing to detentions on the route. The next Conference to be
held at Riley's chapel, Cherokee nation.

A2:)pointme7its.

Cherokee District. — John Harrell, P. E.

Riley's chapel and Grand Saline, Flint circuit, (two to be supplied.)

Y. Ewing. Salasaw circuit, P. Bassham, "W.

Spring Creek circuit, Walker Cary, A. Cobb, supernumerary.

Too-sa-wal-ata. Webber's Falls circuit, W. Coffelt,

Bates's Prairie circuit, E. Butler, Isaac Sanders.

(one to be supplied.) Canadian School, James Essex.

Creelc District. — T). B. Gumming, P. E.

Creek Agency circuit, J. McHenry, Little River, Samuel Checotia, (one

(one to be supplied.) to be supplied.)

Big Bend circuit, Dick Hider, Wm. Asbury Manual Labor School, T.

Mcintosh. B. Ruble, superintendent.

North Fork circuit, G. M. Slover,
(one to be supplied.)

Fort Coffee District. — T. W. Mitchell, P. E., and Superintendent of
Fort Goflfee and New-Hope Academies.

Moshulatubbee, D. W. Lewis, (one Sanbois, (to be supplied.)
to be supplied.)

Choctaw District. — W. L. McAllister, P. E.

Doaksville circuit, Wm. Wilson, F. M. Paine and Wm. Jones, teach-

Simeon P. Willis, John Page. ers.

Mountain Fork circuit, Isaac S. Bloomfield Academy, John H. Garr,

Newman. superintendent.

Kiamichee, B. A. Stanford, Isaac Choctaw Academy, (to be sup-

Chuckmubbee. plied.)

Chickasaw, Harvey Bacon, B. T. Colbert Institute, E. Couch, super-
Crouch, intendent.

Chickasaw Academy, J. G. Robin- E. B. Duncan, superannuated,

son, superintendent Perryville circuit, J. B. Forester.

ARKANSAS CONFERENCE. 39

XIII. Arkansas Conference.
Bishop Pierce.— Oct. 29-Nov. 3.

This body closed a harmonious session, at BatesviUe, Nov. 3. The
editToHhl Memphis Advocate, from which we derive our information
says $450 were realized at the Missionary Anniversary. Bishop Pierce
presided with eminent satisfaction. The editor says : _
^ " The Conference has improved more this year m its missionary col-
lections than any other in the whole Church. Year before last its col-
lections were aiLt $400; last year, about $700; while this year it
S be about $3000. We were disposed to congratulate them upon
their improvement, and hope they will continue to advance in the same
ratio until this young and promismg conference shall take its place
among the foremost in^this great and glorious cause. The next Confer-
ence i°s to be held at Jacksonville."

Ap2^ointments.

Helena District.— '^Tns.vwm Carlile, P. E.

Helena station, Wm. H. GiUiam. LawrencevUle cu-cuit, John H.

Helena circuit, James Mackey. Rice. _ -, tt,„,^tt Hnnkm^

Helena African miss., Wm. H. ^if r^^''^ ' ^fjf ^ H Dod'
Walton. Walnut Bend circuit, K. n. -Uoa-

Mt. Vernon circuit, R. G. Brittain. son. .^ -n -m- mi, ,

M Vernon Africa^ miss., (to be Oceola circuit F. W. Thacker. .
supplied.) Marion circuit, B. F. Hall.

JacJcsonport District.— 3. J. Roberts, P. E.
Jacksonport station, John Rhyne. Augusta African miss., J. D. Stock-

Jacksonport circuit, T. B. Hilburn. ton. t^ ht r. i

Pocahontas circuit, Benoni Harris. GainsviUe circmt, D M Bowles^
Powhattan cir., James M. Rogers. Greensboro' circuit, Isaac L. Hicks.
Augusta circuit, J. D. Andrews. Bolivar circuit, H. 0. Perry.

BatesviUe District.— J ojm Cowle, P. E.
BatesviUe station, A. H. Kennedy. Clinton mission, J. M. Burkhart.
BatesviUe circuit, G. A. DanneUy. Salem mission, — - -— •
Grand Glaze circuit, J. A. Roach, Lebanon mission, 0- McGuire^

J M Deason Richwood mission, H. A. Barnett.

Searcy'circuit, John H. Mann. Strawberry circuit, J. B. Brown.

ClarlsviUe District— L. P. Livelt, P. E.
ClarksviUe circuit, J. L. Denton. Ozark circuit, W G PersMll
Waldron circuit, (to be supplied.) DardaneUe circuit, J. D. Adney.
Fort Smith station, R. W. Ham- Lewisburg circuit, E. T. Jones
^g^j Grand Prairie mission, Jesse Gnf-

Van Buren, BurwcU Lee. fin-

F. S. Wood was appointed President of Crawford Institute.

40 THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Fayetteville District. — Thomas Stanford, P. E.

Fayetteville circuit, J. S. McCarver. Carrollton circuit, Green Boyd.

Boonsboro' circuit, W. T. Thorn- Yellville circuit, W. H. Wood

bury. Newton mission, J. C. Beckham.

Bentonville circuit, M. J. Steel. White River mission, Jordan
Maysville mission, J. P. Maxwell. Banks.

J. M. Steel, agent for American Bible Society.

J. W. Shook, agent for Tract Society in bounds of Arkansas Confer-
ence.
J. S. McAlister transferred to Ouachita Conference.
J. E. Cobb to St. Louis Conference, and appointed to Lexington.
J. S. Mathis transferred to East-Texas Conference.

XIV. Pacific Conference.

Bishop Kayanaugh. — November 5.

The Neic- Orleans Advocate of Nov. 22, says, Bishop Kavanaugh and
his lady reached this city on Saturday morning, after a sojourn of nine
months in California. They return in good health, but much wearied
by the homeward trip. The Bishop furnishes us with reports from the
Conference which met at Sacramento, Nov. 5.

Four preachers were received on trial, and two were readmitted.
J. C. Stewart and R. C. Martin were ordained deacons. R. A. Latimer
and Franklin S. Gray were ordained elders. O. P. Clayton located at
his own request.

Number of members reported, 778 ; number of probationers, 387 ;
number of colored members, 9 ; number of local preachers, 18 ; total
membership, 1212.

The increase of the past year has been about four hundred. Amount
collected for missions, $770 ; for Sunday-school books, $753.

ApiJointments.

San Francisco District. — A. M. Baily, P. E.

San Francisco station, (to be sup- Los Angelos, J. M. Fulton.

plied.) Petaluma, E. B. Suckley.

Contra Costa, (to be supplied.) Bodega, J. T. Cox, (one to be sup-
San Jose, Oscar P. Fitzgerald. plied.)

Santa Clara circuit, (to be sup- Sonora and Napa, S. W. Davis and

plied.) R. B. Johnson.

Gilderoy and San Juan, J. L. San- Luisun, M. Evans.

ders and Jacob Guelle. San Ramon circuit, L. C. Adams,

NORTn-CAKOLINA CONFERENCE.

Sacramento District.— li. H. Russel, P. E.

Sacramento station, W. R. Goher. Iowa City, H. Maupin

I Srento circuit J. C. Stewart Dayton (to be supphed.)

Placerville and Georgetown J. Colus^ R. C Martm

Kolsay, (one to be supplied.) Bear River, J. G. bheiton.

Grtr Valley and Nevada, J. F. Yolo, J. C. Pendergrass.

Blythe, H. C. Settle.

StocUon District.—^. W. Bigham, P. E.
Stoclcton and French Canap, 0. ^onora, Mo N^^^^^^^^

"^^ '• ^- '^"^^" Kl^a^^j' ciirnT-
St:n?slL'-(to bLupplied.) Yisalia, J. S. L. Wood, Thomas

Volcano, James W. Stahl. Brown.

Mokelumne Hill, T. C. Barton.

J. Bonsall discontinued at his own request.

L. D. Bunch " " "

D. Beauchamp " " , ^ ,. --. /•

T W Moore transferred to North-Carolma Conference.

b' T Crouch transferred to Jlemphis Conference.

A Graham transferred to Florida Conference.

W. A. Simmons continued in the superanuated relation.

Next Conference to be held at San Jose.

XV.— North-Cakolina Conference.
Bishop Early.— Nov. 12-20.
We copy the following editorial letter in the K G. Christian Advo-
•"**^ •■ Greensboro', N. C, mv. 18th.

Since my arrival here, the business of the Advocate and of the Con-

ferencThTJe s'occupied my attention, that I have not ^ounat^to^e^

vou informed of the proceedings. And even now, the same causes

JompelSrto defer a full account of the Conference until next week.

Tcan^nly give you in this, a few of the salient points of the saymgs

'"The Conference was opened with the usual exercises on Wednesday
mornLg, Bishop Early presiding. Most of the preachers were present,

^rSafntrT^S^Vt; Kev f. "^ Myers, Editor o^ the .'.^

^'"^•^^^^ioSnce ?r^betn1;re's rmosrof tt^im^a^vilt^
Th?rattr TarberpropitioJs; the hospitality of the. people un-
LnSwhiVe large congregations have attended the mimstry of the
word and the sessions of the Conference.

42 THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Those wno counted on discord and excitement at this Conference,
have been disappointed. The business has been transacted with a good
degree of harmony thus far, and is rapidly approaching a conclusion :
we hope to receive our appointments to-morrow.

TRACT SOCIETY.

The anniversary meeting was held on Thursday evening. Dr. Ham-
ilton and Rev. N. F. Reid addressed the audience in behalf of the Tract
enterprise, and secured about $200. It may be here stated that Dr.
Hamilton has awakened increased interest in this good work ; and that
the Conference has requested the Bishop to appoint a Conference Tract
Agent.

EDUCATION SOCIETT.

On Friday night a meeting on behalf of the N. G. Conference Educa-
tion Society was held in the Methodist church ; and in response to
appeals by Drs. Hamilton and Deems, and Rev. B. Clegg, about $150
were contributed to aid young men to pay for education necessary to
qualify them to enter the travelling ministry in our Conference.

MISSIONARY SOCIETY.

The anniversary meeting of the Conference Missionary Society was
held on Saturday evening. Collections were taken up in the Methodist
and Presbyterian churches ; Rev. E. H. Myers and Dr. Deems addressed
the audience in the former, while Messrs. Gloss and N. F. Reid presented
the claims of missions to the audience in the Presbyterian church. The
amount contributed in both churches was about $440.

The whole amount from the circuits and stations is $10,501.33. Of
this I shall say more when the Report of the Treasurer is published.

DEATH OF REV. M. L. DOUGLASS.

Brother Douglass arrived on Tuesday, and was in the Conference
room on Wednesday. He had done a faithful year's work on Columbia
circuit, and had suffered lately from an attack of fever. On Thursday
he was attacked with congestion of the brain. Drs. Cole and AYilliam-
son vainly applied all the known resources of medical skill to his relief.
He lingered in a state of insensibility until Saturday evening, when he
died "and entered into rest." Brother Douglass left no parents, nor
wife, nor children to mourn his early death. But his brethren of the
Conference feel that one of the best, the purest of their comrades, who
had endeared himself to us all as a brother, has been cut off in the
midst of his usefulness. In his last illness he received every attention
and kindness in the family of Col. John Sloan, whose guest he was.

The preachers met at Col. Sloan's on Sunday afternoon, whence they
followed the body of the deceased, in procession, to the Methodist
church, where an appropriate funeral discourse was deUvered by Dr.
Deems. The mournful procession then marched to the graveyard, and
consigned the remains of Brother Douglass to the earth, to rest until
the resurrection morn.

A fine class of young men have been received on trial, who will sup-

NORTH-CAROLINA CONFERENCE.

ply the places of those who have been called above, or have been obliged
by stress of circumstances to locate.

Appointments.
Ealeigh District. — Robert 0. Bueton, P. E.

Raleigh, James H. "Wheeler.
Raleigh city mission, Jas. Reid.
Raleigh colored mis., R. T. Heflin.
Raleigh circuit, Gaston Farrow.
Henderson and Clarksville, John

Tillett.
Granville, Peter H. Joyner and
, Moses J. Hunt.
Person, Philemon W. Archer.

Hillsboro', John "W. Pearson.

Hillsboro' Circuit, Henry Gray and
Allen W. Mangum.

Warren, Theopholis W. Moore.

Roanoke, John N. Andrew and Os-
car J. Brent.

Roanoke col. miss., P. W, Yarrell.

Chapel HiU, H. T. Hudson.
Eno Mission, (to be supplied.)
Thos. S. Campbell, President of Warrenton Female CoUege.
Rufus T. Heflin was reelected Editor of the North- Carolina Christian
Advocate.

Greensboro' District. — ^N. H. D. Wilson, P. E.

Greensboro', Numa F. Reid, Josh

ua Bethel, supernumerary.
Guilford, John M. Gunn.
Uwhara, Nathan A. Hooker.
Normal College, Thos. B. James.
Montgomery, Jos. C. Thomas.
Deep River, Williamson Harris.
Wentworth, Benj. M. Williams.

Wm. Closs, Agent for Greensboro' Female College,

Rockingham, Peter Doub, T. L.
Triplett.

i Haw River, Robert P. Bibb.

}. Haw River miss., Saml. Robert-

( son.
Franklinsville, Slarcus L. Wood.
Alamance, Samuel J. Spotts.

Salisbury District. — Wm. Barringer, P. E.

Salisbury, Robt. G. Barrett.

< Rowan, Marcus C. Thomas.

\ East-Rowan, Isaac F. Keerans.
Mocksville, Thos. B. Ricks.
Iredell, Wm. Carter, W. W. Albea,

sup.
Alexander, Bedford B. Shelton.
South-Iredell, Wm. C. Gannon.
Wilkes, Charles M. Anderson.

Surry, Simeon D. Peeler.
Forsythe, S. H. Helsabeck.
Winston, James E. Mann.
Davidson, Shockly D. Adams, Geo.
W. Farabee, supernumerary.
'Blue Ridge miss., (to be sup-
plied.)
Fisher's River mission, (to be
supplied.)

Danville District. — Junius P. Moore, P. E,

Danville, James L. Fisher.
YanceyviUe, James P. Simpson.
Leasburg, John W. Lewis.
Halifax, Alfred Norman.
Halifax col. miss., J. H. Jefferson.
Stanton, Caswell W. King.
Pittsylvania, Wm. M. Jordan.

Franklin, John D. Halstead.
Allegany Mission, Washington D.

Meacham.
Patrick, Isaac AV. Avent
Stokes, John S. Davis.
Germanton, James B. Bobbitt.
Henry, Chas. H. Phillips.

James Jamei.son, President of Danville Female College.

44 THE AISTNUAJL CONTEEENCES.

Washington District. — Robert J, Carson, P. E.

Washington, Tho. P. Ricaud. Plymouth, Tho. W. Guthrie.

Tar River, Lemon Shell, Jas. F. Williamston, Henry H. Gibbons
Smoot, J. W. Floyd, sup. Geo. Evans Wyche. '

Nash, Jas. J. Hinds, Tarboro', Lyngurn S. Burkhead.

Columbia, Jas. B. Baily. Bath Mission, (to be supplied.)

Matamuskeet, W. B. Richardson. Neuse, Isham H. Hill.

New-Berne District. —Ira T. Wyche, P. E.

New-Berne, Centenary, Abram Everettsville, C. P. Jones.

Weaver. Smithfield, Clarendon M. Pepper.

New-Berne, Andrew chapel, W. DupUn, Dougan C. Johnson.

M. Walsh. Onslow, Geo. W. HeptenstaU.

New-Berne circuit, Jos. Wheeler. Trent, Samuel B. Dozier

&now Hill, David W. Doub. Beaufort, Ann street church, L. L.
Wilson, Benj. F.Long. Hendren.

Goldsboro', John S. Long. Purvis chapel miss., (to be sup-
Kmston, James W. Wheeler. plied.)

Samuel M. Frost, President of Goldsboro' Female College.

Wilmington District.— D. B. Nicholson, P. E.

Wilmington, Front st, C. P. Deems. Fayetteville, Wm. H. Bobbitt.

Wilmington, Fifth st., J.W.Tucker. Fayetteville circuit, Marble N. Tav-

TopsaU, Wm. T. Clegg. lor.

New-Hanover and Onslo\^^ mission, Robeson, Paul J. Caroway.

W. S. Chaflfin. Whitesville, Norman A. A. Goddin.

Sampson, Jos. B. Martin, A. D. Smithville, J. A. Cunningim.

T„-^f**^- .,^„ , Cape Fear miss., (to be supplied.)

Bladen, Daniel Culbreth. v r-r /

Wm. L Langdon, Seaman's Bethel.

Wm. E. Pell, Principal Fayetteville Female High School.

Atlantic District. — John Jones, P. E.

Portsmouth and Ocracoke, John S. Cape Hatteras mission, Arthur F

Newby. Harris.

Cape Look Out, John Jones. Strait, Medicus H. Hcio-ht.

The next Conference will be held in Goldsboro', N. C. °

XVI. Ouachita Conference.

Bishop Peirce. — Nov. 12-15.

This Conference was held at Princeton, Ark., November 12, Bishop
Pierce presiding, and closed November 16. The Memphis Christian
Advocate gives cheering intelligence as to the improvement in the col-
lections for Missionary, Tract, and Educational purposes. " The con-

OUACHITA CONFERJENCE.

tributions two years ago were only fifteen hundred dollars ; this year
about seven thousand four hundi-ed dollars. The Conference has de-
termined to build a female college of high grade at Camden. Brother
Ratcliffe has given them a subscription in land and money amounting
to about two thousand dollars. The citizens of Camden and vicinity
have subscribed some seven thousand dollars which is to be raised to
fifteen thousand before the other subscriptions become due. Last,
but not least, the members of Conference on the morning of the adjourn-
ment, subscribed over two thousand dollars."

Appoiyitments.

Little Roch District. — Russel M. Morgan, P. E.

Little Rock, R. H. Withers. Rock Port, F. Brown.

Little Rock Afric. mis., (to be sup.) Saline mission, L. H. Johnson.

Bayou Metre, E. L. Gaddie. Perryville mission, Thos. Hunt.

Benton, W. J. Scott. BrownsviUe, J. E. CaldweU, F. F.
Mill Creek, L. L. Marshall. Bond.

Washington District. — "Wm. Moores, P. E.

Washington, D. L. G. McKensie. Arkadelphia, J. M. Stevenson.

Hempsted, San. Morris, J. Tur- Caddo, Thos. B. Atterbury.

ner, sup. Mt. Ida mission, J. Kenedy.

Blue Bayou, W. J. McFarland, A. Dallas, Elijah Smoot.

Avery, sup. Paraclifta, H. W. Balach.

Camden District. — J. B. Annis, P. E.

Camden, A. B. Winfield. Lapiel, Jessie W. Owen, J. C. L.
Ouachita circuit, and African mis- Aiken, sup.

sion, B. C. Wier and W. B. Magnolia, James T. Hulse, Malcolm

Baxter. Turner.

El Dorado, John M. Bradley, B. Lewisville, M. H. Wells.

Kellogg. Red River mis., Robert M. Kirby.

Pine Bluff District— A. R. Winfield, P. E.

Pine Bluff, A. L. P. Green. Princeton, W. T. Anderson, James

Jefferson, John F. Carr. Gordon.

Jefferson, African mission, (to be Hampton, Wm. Winburn.

supplied.)
Richland mission, A. Turrentine.
Plumb Bayou, (to be supplied.)
Swan Lake, L. Sutherland, R. S

Jones.
Lehi, R. F. Withers.

Warren, E. Crowson.

Tulip Female Seminary, Benj. Wat-
son, Principal; Jessie McAllis-
ter, Professor.

American Bible Society, A. Hun-
ter.

Monticello District. — J. H. Blakely, P. E.

Monticello, John Prior.
Lacy, A. Putnam.

Auburn, D. W. Epps.
De Witt, J. J. Couch.

46 THE ANNUAL CONTEKENCES.

Harrisburg, Peter Haskew. Lake Village, B. Williams, John

Napoleon mission, E. W. Weir, M. W. Marin.
C. Manley, sup.

C. P. Turrentine, Agent T. Seminary.
W. P. Ratclifife, Agent C. Seminary.
Next Conference to be held Little Rock.

XVil. South-Carolina Conteeence.
Bishop Akdeew. — Nov. 19.

The South-Carolina Conference began its session at Yorkville, Nov.
1 9. Bishop Andrew was in attendance, accompanied by his wife — both
looked in good health. The Bishop had made a visit to Charleston,
where he preached three times on the Sabbath preceding the session —
a very good apostolic way of filling up the intervals between the Con-
ferences. He presided with his usual ability. He made an effective
missionary speech to a crowded audience on Saturday night, and preached
on Sunday morning before the ordination of deacons. His addresses to
the Conference on various points of ministerial duty — particularly pas-
toral visitation — were very appropriate and forcible.

At this session seven preachers were admitted on trial, namely, F. M.
Morgan, W. J. E. Fripp, F. Smith, E. G. Gage, J. L. McGregor, E. A.
Lemond, J. H. Gleason. Three were readmitted — W. L. Pegues, 0. A.
Chrietzberg, and E. J. Pennington. There were, however, several loca-
tions. Nine itinerant and ten local preachers were ordained deacons.
Eight itinerant and two local preachers were ordained elders. One had
died — Ed. D. Boydon. His end was peace.

The tract cause had received considerable attention during the year,
and great interest was manifested in reference to it during the session.
The anniversary on Monday night was nmnerously attended, and over
three hundred dollars were raised for this enterprise. It was to have
been held on Friday night, but was postponed on account of the rain.
The Missionary Anniversary was held on Saturday night ; the attend-
ance was large and the interest considerable ; some fifteen htmdred dol-
lars were raised, making the collections for the year some twenty-eight
THOUSAND DOLLARS ! We in the West ought to pause over these figures.
If Georgia and Alabama fall below this mark, after resolving to raise
thirty thousand, I for one shall feel ashamed.

The sermons preached during the Conference were well attended.
The pulpits of the Presbyterian, Independent Presbyterian, and Asso-
ciate Reformed Churches were occupied by members of Conference —
but not the pulpit of the Protestant Episcopal Church.

The large hall of the Presbyterian Female College was also used for
sermons and addresses ; and crowds were present on every occasion,
notwithstanding the rain, and mud, and darkness of the nights. It is
devoutly hoped that great good may result fi-om the services held during
the session.

Yorkville is a pleasant rural village, reached by a railway making off

SOUTII-CAKOLINA CONTISEENCE.

from the Columbia and Charlotte road at Chester. The inhabitants
appear to be refined and hospitable, and I should think the religious
element is considerably developed among them. They talk about sub-
stituting some of their old and dingy churches with new ones, which
are much needed — particularly by the Methodists and Presbyterians.
The Female College edifice is a good building, and the institution, I
understand, is in a flourishing state. Our Presbyterian brethren rarely
fail in their educational undertakings. In this connection, I am happy
to state, that the institutions under the care of this Conference are pros-
perous, and give promise of extended usefulness. "Woflford College is
developing finely under the eflQcient management of President Wight-
man and his associates.

Considerable interest was given to this session by the presence of a
number of influential laymen, members of the legal conference, and of
the joint board of finance.

A][^yoint'ments.
Charleston District. — H. A. C. Walkek, P. E.

Charleston, Cumberland, W. P.
Mouzon.

Charleston, Trinity, J. T. Wight-
man, Jos. Cross, sup.

Charleston, Bethel, W. H. Fleming.

Charleston, Spring street, W. E.
Boone.

Charleston, St. James, W. A. Hem-
ingway.

Cooper Eiver, E. J. Pennington.

Cooper River mission, G. W. Moore.

Back River mis., (to be supplied.)

St. Andi-ew's mis., (to be supplied.)

Cypress, W. H. Lawton, W. B.
Curry.

St. George and St. Paul's mission,
A. Nettles,

Pon Pon mission, W. C. Kirkland,

(one to be supplied.)
St. George, J. T. Kilgo.
Walterboro', W. W. Jones, R. R.

Pegues.
Ashepoo and Combahee mis., P. A.

M. Williams, (one to be sup.)
Prince William's mis.,W. Hutto.
Black Swamp, S. Leard, R. W.

Burgess.
Allendale, S. B. Jones.
Savannah R. mission, J. D. W.

Crook, D. A. Ogburn.
Okatie mission, (to be supplied.)
Beaufort mission, J. R. Coburn.
Edisto and Jehossee mission, C.

Wilson.

Georgetown District. — C. Betts, P. E.

Georgetown, L. M. Hamer.
Santee mission, J. T. Du Bose, C.

E. Wiggins.
Sampit mission, T. Mitchell.
Black River and Pee Dee mission,

J. W. Miller, A. 11. Harmon.
Black River, W. L. Pegues, 0. A.

Chrietzberg.
Black Mingo mis., G. W. Stokes.
Lynchburg, J. H. Robinson.
Darlington, A. McCorquodale, J.

W. Murray.
Sumter, A. (.1. Stacy, J. T. Muuds,

sup.

Sumter circuit, B. English.
Bennettsville, H. M. Mood, W.

Fripp.
Society Hill mis., J. P. Hughes.
Marion, D. J. Simmons.
Liberty chapel mis., J. A. Mood.
Marion circuit, L. M. Little, J. W.

Crider.
Conwayboro', D. W. Scale, A. J.

Evans.
Waccamaw mission, J. A. Minnick,

J. L. McGregor.
Upper Waccamaw mission, G. K.

Andrews.

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Columbia District. — ^W. Crook, P. E.

Columbia, "Washington st., C. H.

Pritchard.
Columbia, Congaree mis. , N. Talley.
Columbia, Marion street, O. A.

Darby.
Columbia circuit, D. D. Byars.
Richland Fork mis., A. L. Smith.
Blackville, E, J. Meynardie.
Orangeburg, M. L. Banks, F. M.

Morgan.

Barnwell, E. A. Price.

Lexington, J. Bradley, E. A. Le-
mond.

Santee, A. P. Avant.

Upper Santee mis., W. Carson.

Winnsboro', J. S. Connor.

Fairfield, C. McLeod.

Chesterville, S. Townsend.

W. Martin, Agent of Columbia Fe-
male College.

CoTcesbury District. — R. J. Boyd, P. E.

Cokesbury, A. M. Chrietzberg.
Abbeville, C. Murchison.
Edgefield, J. A. Porter, J. S. Hill.
Aiken, (to be supplied.)
Graniteville mis., "W. W. Mood.
Newberry, A. W. Walker.
Newberry circuit, T. Raysor, J. M.

Cline.
Union, S. H. Browne, C. J. Gage.
Tiger River, and Enoree mission, J.

Finger.
Laurens, M. Puckett, A. P. Martin.

Greenville, F. M. Kennedy.

Greenville circuit, M. Eaddy, W.
A. Clarke.

Anderson, R. P. Franks, (one to be
supplied.)

"Walhalla mis., J. W. Zimmerman.

Pickens, F. Smith.

Jocassee mis., L. Scarborough.

Pickensville, A. B. McGilvray.

Cokesbury School, J. W. Wight-
man.

Tract Agent, W. A. McSwain.

Charlotte District. — H. C. Parsons, P. E.

Charlotte, James Stacy.
Charlotte circuit, G. W. M. Creigh-

ton, J. H. Gleason.
Concord, J. Watts.
Albemarle, D. May.
Cheraw, J. R. Pickett.
Wadesboro', L. A. Johnson.
Wadesboro' circuit, M. A. McKib-

ben, J. S. Nelson.

Chesterfield, S. Jones.
Camden, W. A. Gamewell.
Wateree mission, J. L. Shuford, W.

S. Black.
Lancaster, A. B. Stevens.
Catawba mission, A. J. Cauthen.
Monroe, G. W. Ivey, (one to be sup.)
T. R. Walsh, Pres. Carolina Female

College.

Shelby District— 3. W. Kelly, P. E.

Spartanburg, H. H. Durant.

Spartanbiu-g circuit, C. S. Walker,

Yorkville, A. H. Lester.

Yorkville circuit, J. W. North.

Lincolnton, L. Moore, M. A. Con-
nelly.

Shelby, E. W. Thompson.

Rutherford, P. F. Kistler.
W. M. Whiteman, President of
Whitefoord Smith, Professor in

Catawba, J. W. Puett.

Lenoir, A. Irwin.

Morganton, J. S. Ervin, (one to be
supplied.)
■ South-Mountain mis., (to be sup.)

Columbus, B. G. Jones.

Upper Broad River mission, Joseph
Parker.
WofiFord College.
Woflford College.

EAST-TEXAS CONFERENCE. 49

Charles Taylor, Professor in Spartanburg Female College.
A. M. Shipp, Professor in North-Carolina University.
Benjamin Jenkins, missionary to China.
J. H. Ward, transferred to the St. Louis Conference.

XVIII. East-Texas Contekence.

Bishop Paine. — November 19.

Appointments.
San Augustine District. — W. K, Wilson, P. E.

San Augustine, John C. Woolam. Salem, Wm. Craig.

Shelbyville, W. H. Crawford. Nacogdoches, S. A. Williams, M.

Panola, Nathan S. Johnson. Mathews.

Henderson, Neil Brown. Elysian Fields, David M. Stovall.

Marshall District. — James T. P. Irvine, P. E.

Marshall, John W. Fields. Gilmer, Isaac Alexander.

Harrison and Harrison colored Upshur, Alexander W. Goodgion.

mission, F. M. Stovall, Wm. J. Dangerfield, Benjamin M. Scrive-
Joice. ner, J. N. Hamill, supernumer-

Jefferson, Charles L. Hamill. ary.

Coffeeville, H. D. Pahner, Quitman, J. C. Smith.

Clar'ksville District. — James R. Bellamy, P. E.

Boston, Samuel Bobbins. Bonham, M. C. Robertson.

/• Clarksville, H. W. Gumming, Greenville, (to be supplied.)

J M. W. Neely. Sulphur, John F. Lard.

1 Bowie, colored mission, Andrew Mt. Pleasant, J. W. H. Hamill.

' Gumming. Linden, Sol. T. Bridges, M. F.
Paris, A. C. McDougall, C. J. Cock. Cole, supernumerary.

Dallas District. — J. B. Tdllis, P. E.

Dallas, Levi R. Dennis. Canton, John McMiUon.

Sherman mission, W. E. Bates. Rockwall, J. W. Chalk.

Kaufman, James A. Scroggs. Border mission, Isaac B. Walker.
Alton, W. A. Stovall.

Palestine District. — N. W. Bubks, P. E.

Palestine and Larissa, R. S. Finlcy. C Tyler, Samuel Lynch.
Crockett, W. P. Sandom, < Tyler, colored mission, (to be

Cherokee, A. Young. ( supplied.)

50 THE ANNUAL CONFEKKNCES.

Jacksonville, M. C. Simpson, "W. E. C Anderson, Robert Crawford.

George, super. < Anderson, colored mission, A. L.
Athens, AVm. McCarty, S. D. ( Kavanaugh.

Sansom, supernumerary. Rusk, Thos. W. Rogers.

Woodville District. — Jefferson Shook, P. E.

Woodville, L. C. Grouse. Liberty, L. B. Hickman.

Marion mission, J. W. Overall. Madison, Abner Brown.

Sumpter mission, RandaU Odom. Newton, John Stubblefield.

Livingston miss., James G. Hardin. Jasper, Jarvis L. Angell.

C. C. Gillespie, editor of the Texas Christian Advocate^ and member
of the Liberty Quarterly Conference.

H. B. Hamilton, Tract Agent, and member of the Tyler Quarterly
Conference.

M. H. Porter, Principal of Starrville Female High School, and mem-
ber of Tyler Quarterly Conference.

P. W. Hobbs, transferred to Texas Conference.

Yours in the bonds of Christian love, James T. P. Ikvcje.

Sec. East- Texas Conference.

The following committees were appointed to visit the institutions of
learning :

Oilmer Female College. — J. T. P. Irvine, Isaac Alexander.

Starcille Female HigTi School. — N. "W. Burks, Samuel Lynch, H. B.
Hamilton.

Fowler Institute. — W. K. Wilson, Neill Brown, F. M. Stovall.

McKenzie Institute. — ^H. W. Gumming, S. Robins, M. G. Robertson.

Paris Female Institute. — J. R. Bellamy, A. C. McDougall, C. J.
Cock.

Examining Committees.

First Year — NeiU Brown, Samuel Lynch.
Second Year — L. R. Dennis, H. B. Hamilton.
Third Year — H. W. Gumming, M. C. Robertson,
Fourth Year—R. S. Finley, F. M. StovaU.

XIX. Virginia Conference.
Bisuop Early. — November 26-December 5.

The Virginia Conference met at Richmond, November 26, and closed
after a session of ten days. Bishop Early presided. The proceedings
are reported in full in the Bichmond Christian Advocate, from which
the following items of general interest are transcribed.

The educational interests of the Church within this Conference juris-
diction are in a sound and promising condition. There are one male

VIRGINIA COMFKRENCE. 51

and three female colleges vrithin the territory, and under the fostering
care of the Conference. These are : Randolph Macon College, the
Female Collegiate Institution, Buckingham county, Va. ; the Female
College in the city of Petersburg, and the A7esleyan Female College, in
Murfreesboro', N. 0. These, by the successful training of the young,
and the sound and accurate scholarship of their graduates, have all
made to themselves a good name, and are of good report in all the
land.

The Joint Board of Finance, a committee of ministers and laymen, is
one of the most laborious and important committees of the Conference.
It has charge of all fiscal matters pertaining to the support of the minis-
try. It projects plans for raising funds for the deficient travelling and
superannuated ministers, their wives, widows, and children. The divi-
dend to the claimants was 71 per cent.

The missionary treasury is in an improved condition, gradually and
steadily advancing in the evidences of the appreciation of the cause of
missions, and of the obligations to sustain it with an increasing liberal-
ity. The sum total of the collection approximates, perhaps passes be-
yond, the sum of sixteen thousand dollars. Three fourths of this
amount will gladden the hearts of the General Treasurers. The result
of the year will show an advance of several thousand dollars on the last
years' report. In recording this vqsxxM, ihQ Advocate says: "It will
be as easy in the current year to advance to twenty thousand as it was
to reach the present point. It wiU never do to go back. Let the minis-
ters 'speak to the people that they go forward.' The right feeling is
awake ; let it be kept awake and active. Congratulate us, South-Caro-
lina, Alabama, Georgia, and look well about you, God is moving his
people in Virginia to love and to good works. We are provoked to a
holy emulation in the glorious enterprise of bringing the world to the
obedience of faith. We are trying to show our faith by our works. To
our brethren, lay and clerical, we say, twenty thousand dollars is the
minimum of our year's offering to the cause of missions.

The anniversary, meetings were spirited and successful, and the result
added about fifteen hundred dollars to the treasury of the Conference
Society.

It is believed five thousand souls professed faith in Christ under the
labors of the ministers during the year. The success of the year, in
winning souls to Christ, was a matter of grateful joy.

Only one minister, the Rev. F. S. Mitchell, had been called from labor
to reward during the year. He was a good man. A useful life was
closed by a serene and joyous death.

Numbers in Society. — Whites, 30,975; probationers, 3527; local
ministers, 205 ; colored members, 5841 ; probationers, 3G2. There is
an increase of white members over those reported last year, of 1050.
A small decrease is reported among the colored people. But for the dis-
tinction in the report between members and probationers, the results of
the year's labor would show an increase of 3577. This actual state of
the accessions to the Church is, by the distinction in the report, reduced
to 1054: as the gain of members. These are some of the good ft-uits of the
gracious revivals of the past year. May the current year be even more
abundant in gracious visitations, and the ingathering of precious soul«.

Sundarj-schooh and Bibles. — This important department of our opera-

TUB ANNUAL C0NFEKENCE3.

tions presents the following items of information : Sabbatb schools, 322 ;
superintendents, 390 ; teachers, 2565 ; scholars, 14,403 ; volumes in
libraries, 87,480 ; copies of the Suiiday- School Visitor taken, 95G.
Money expended in the schools, $2041.14. Amount raised for the
American Bible Society, $1115.33. This is not a full report of the
money contributed for the circulation of the Scriptiu-es by our people,
as very few of the collections of the Society's agents in our congrega-
tions are reported to our body.

Appointments.
Richmond District. — T. C. Hayes, P. E.

Trinity, E. P. Wilson and S. P.

Mooreman, sup.
Centenary, N. Head.
Union station, J. D. Blackwell and

Thomas H. Jones, sup.
Wesley Chapel and Rocketts, J. K.

Littleton.
Clay St., Geo. H. Ray.
Oregon, A. J. Beckwith.
African mission, G. W. NoUey.

Hampton, C. C. Pearson.
Charles City and New-Kent, Benj.

C. Spiller.
Williamsburg, S. P. Woodward,

J. C. Garlick, sup.
Eastville, Cyrus Doggett, A. S.

Harly.
Gloucester, J. Shough.
York, A. M. Hall.

Leroy M. Lee, editor B. C. Advocate.

FredericTcsburg District.-

Fredericksburg station, Jos. A.

Proctor.
Spotsylvania, Ro. B. Beadles.
King and Queen, John Bayley.
Middlesex, J. C. Hummer.
Lancester, B. R. Duval, P. Doll,

sup.

-Wm. B. Rowzie, p. E.

Westmoreland, J. G. Rowe, (one to

be supplied.)
King George, T. S. D. Covington.
Fauquier, H. P. Nelms.
Stafford, Wm. G. Lumpkins,
Caroline, G. Mauzey, R. Scott, sup
Rappahannock, T. H. Boggs.

Washington District-
Washington City, D. S. Doggett,

C. A. Davis, sup.
Alexandria, J. A. Duncan.
Rock's Creek, J. J. Lambkin.
Howard, (to be supplied.)
Halifax, P. F. August.
Fairfox mission, (to be supplied.)
Potomac, W. B. Twyman.
Leesburg, John L. Clark.

-W. W. Bennett, P. E.

Haynes, S,

Loudoun, T. H

Creurd.
Warrenton, Wm. E. Judkins, (one

to be supplied.)
Springfield, E. A. Gibbs.
Patterson's Creek, S. V. Hoyle.
Manassas, Ro. S. Nash.
Prince William, David Wallace.

Charlottesville District. — J. Manning, P. E.

Charlottesville station, J. C. Gran- Orange, James F. Brannin.

berry. Louisa, Wra. M. Ward, G. W. Har-

Albemarle, S. McMullen, F. L. Wav. per, sup.

VIRGINIA CONFERENCE. 58

Nelson mission, J. F. Finnel. Madison, D. J. C. Slaughter.

Hanover, Thos. A. Pearce. Blue Kidge mission, A. J. Cauf-

Scottsville, H. S. Atneal. man.

Fluvanna, Thos. Diggs, E. Cham- Elk Run, Thos. Y. Cash.

bers, sup. Harrisonburg and Woodstock, A. J.

Goochland, John P. Brock. Brown.

LyncKbiirg Diftrict. — L. Rosser, P. E.

Lynchburg, Third street, C. H. Staunton, Wm. F. Bain.

Hall ; Fourth street, G. AV. Campbell, Robert T. Nixon.

Carter. Appomattox, John D. Southall, R.

Amherst, J. B. Dey. Gregory, sup.

Buffalo, J. B. Fitzpatrick. Buckingham, Joseph Springs, A.

Lexington station, Paul Whitehead. Clark, sup.

Lexington circuit, (to be supplied.) Cumberland, Thos. D. Hoyle.

Bedford, J. R. Waggoner. Fincastle, W. C. Blount.

BandolpTi Macon District. — Wm. H. Wheelwright, P. E.

Randolph Macon and Boydton, T. Nottoway mission, (to be supplied.)

A. Ware. Farmville, J. S. R. Clark.

Randolph Macon circuit, Jos. H. Charlotte, H. D. Wood, L. Skid-

Riddick. more, sup.

Mecklenburg circuit, Milton L. Northampton, Wm. Grant.

Bishop. Southampton, John W. Howard.

Greenville, Jos. J. Edwards. President Randolph Macon College,

Brunswick, Wm. G. Cross. W. A. Smith.

Lunenburg, James S. Kennedy. Agent Randolph Macon College,

Prince Edward, A. Wiles, Wm. G. H. B. Cowlcs.

Dulin, M. M. Dance, sup.

Petersburg District. — Robekt Michales, P. E.

Petersburg: Powhatan, Thos. J. Bayton.

Washington street, John E. Ed- Amelia, Peter A. Peterson,

wards, G. W. Charlton, sup. Dinwiddle, J. M. Arnold.

Union, G. W. Deems. Sussex, Jos. Lear.

Wesley chapel, John F. Poulton. Sussex colored mission, W. A Ro-

High street, J. D. Coulling, John berson.

Kerr, sup. Surry, Jesse K. Powers.

Factories mission, G. N. Winfrec. Prince George, H. P. Mitchell, A.

Chesterfield, Benjamin F.Woodard, Steward, sup.

James A. Morse. Smithfield, John M. Saunders.

Manchester, Oscar Littleton. Tract Agent, D. P. Willis.

Norfolk and Murfreeshoro^ District. — J. A. Riddick, P. E.

Norfolk : Princess Ann E. M. Peterson.

Cumberland street, F. Stanlej^, Murfreesboro', Lemuel S. Reed.

H. Billups, sup. Roanoke and Chowan,

Bute street, Wm. H. Barnes. Gates, J. W. White.

THE ANNUAL CONrERENCES.

Granby street, George W. Lang-
home.
Portsmouth :

Dinwiddie street, J. R. Finley.

African mission, (to be supplied.)

Wesley chapel, Jos. H. Amis.
Gosport, J. S. Briggs.
Norfolk circuit, Lloyd Moore.

Hertford, Wm. G. Williams.
Edenton, C. B. Riddick.
Pansquotank, Wm. J. Norfleet.
Elizabeth City mission, (to be sup-
plied.)
Gamdes, T. L. Williams.
Indian Ridge, B. F. Story.
Currituck, G. W. Trimyear.

J. H. Davis, President Wesley an Female College, Murfreesboro, N. C.

B. P. Johnson, Agent for Wesleyan Female College, Murfreesboro',
N. C.

F. J. Boggs, of the Greenbrier District, and C. H. Boggs, of the Mon-
roe District, transferred to Western Virginia Conference.

XX. Mississippi Coneerenck.

Bishop Peirce.

Appointments.

Natchez District. — Lewell Campbbll, P. E.

Natchez, W. H. Watkins.
WoodviUe, J. J. Wheat.
Laurel Hill mis., J. D. Newson.
Washington and col. mis. Wm. B.

Johnson.
Kingston, J. G. Hollins.
Buffalo, Samuel Dawson.
Pinckneyville and Barrows, T. TV.

Brown.
Homochitto mis., D. F. Lewis.

Wilkinson, I. A. B. Jones.
Percy's Creek, E. A. Flowers.
Clinton, John Lusk.
East-Feliciana, G. D. Wake.
East-Feliciana col. mis., J. B. Hig-

ginbottom.
Jackson, Wm. H. Scales.
Bayou Sara and col. mis. P. E.

Green.

Centenary College, J. C. Miller, President.

Centenary College, Preparatory Department, A. G. Miller.

Fayette District. — John G. Jones, P. E.

Fayette cir., G. F. Thompson, W. Bayou Pirere col. mis., W. H. Mul-

W. Graves. lins.

South- Jefferson col. mis., C. T. Georgetown, A. B. Nicholson.

French. Pearl River, H. M. Yoimgblood, K.

North- Jefferson col. mis., J. H. A. Jones.

Merrill. Amite, C. R. Godfrey.

Scotland, J. B. Bowen. St. Helena, Allen Castle, B. Pipkin,

Bayou Pirere, H. M. Ercanhack, R. supernumerary.

T. Hennington.

MISSISSIPPI CONFERENCE.

Yicksburg District— 'R. M. Drake, P. E,

Vicksburg, C. K. Marshall.

Vicksburg col. mis., H. Copeland.

Warren and col. mis., G. H. Clin-
ton, (one to be supplied.)

Clinton, J. R. Lambeth, (one to be
supplied.)

Ostend mis., (one to be supplied.)

Jackson, James "VTalton.

Raymond and Spring Ridge, Wm.

M. Curtis.
Crystal Springs, D. A. J. Parker.
Port Gibson and Grand Gulf, L.

WUey, B. Jones.
Rocky Springs, H. M. Boothe, V.

H. Johnson.

Greenville Mission District. — W. B. Hines, P. E.

Greenville, W. G. Millsaps.
Greenville col. mis., E. A. Smalley.
Bolivar, Wm. Wadsworth.
Miller's Bend, D. M. Wadsworth.

Middle Deer Creek, J. H. Shelton.
Swan Deer Creek, (to be suppUed.)
Villulo, R. W. Lambeth.
Sunflower mis., E. F. MuUins.

Tazoo District. — L. Peabce, P. E.

Yazoo City, W. P. Barton.
Yazoo mission, A. Becton.
Yazoo circuit, D. M. "Wiggins.
Big Black mis., F. M. Featherston.
Valley mission, (to be supplied.)
Holmes, H. J. Harris.
Richland and Lexington, T. M.

Ward.
Ebenezer, T. C. Rayner.

Black Hawk, D. W. Dillahay.
Middleton, I. G. Carlisle.
Carrollton, Joseph Nicholson.
Carrol, (to be supplied.)
Sidon, J. EngUsh.
Honey Island, H. Williamson.
Greenwood, W. P. Dickerson.
North- Warren, J. I. E. Byrd.
North-Warren mis., J. W. Jones.

Sharon District. — H. H. Montgomery, P. E.

Sharon and Thornton's chapel, G.
C. Light

Canton, J. L. Forsythe.

Madison col. mis., A. Day.

Vernon and Livingston, J. Mat-
thews.

Robinson's Plantations, J. S. Har-
ris.

Attala, Whitfield Harrington.

Bankston, (to be supplied.)

Greensboro' mis., B. Avent.

StarkviUe and Pierce's chapel, H.
T. Lewis.

Octibeha mis., T. C. Parish, J. M.
Jones, supernumerary.

McWillie's col. mis., (to be sup-
plied.)

Carthage, J. G. Deskin.

Madison CoUege, T. C. Thornton, President. J. M. Pugh, Professor,
B. J. Woodward, Agent for Sharon Female College.

Paulding District. — R. J. Jones, P. E.

Paulding, Wm. Price.
Westville, A. J. Smith,
Talahala mis., F. W. Sharborough.
Raleigh, J. M. Turner.
Hopevillc mis., R. A. Sibley.

Brandon, J. A. Godfrey.
Hillsboro', J. A. Light
Decatur, G. J. Mortimer.
Philadelphia, J. J. Clark.
Louisville, D. McDonald.

56 THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Covington District. — J. Y. Gkiffine, P. E.

Covington, John T. Dew. Leaf River mis., J. H. Massey.

FranTilinton, H. D. Bcny. Black Creek, J. D. Willis.

Sea Shore, E. R. Strickland. Livingston, Wm. S. Townsend.

Gainsville, J. Boyce. East Baton Rouge, G. S. Vickers.
Columbia, S. T. Swiney.

R. Abby, Agent for Tract Society and raising funds for Depository \n
New-Orleans and belongs to Vicksburg Quarterly Conference.

S. W. Speer transferred to Memphis Conference and appointed to
Marshall Institute.

B. B. Whittington transferred to Ouachita Conference, and appointed
to Plum Bayou circuit.

J. R. Thomas transferred to Alabama Conference.

R. T. Jones left without appointment by vote of Conference.

XXI. Georgia Conference.

Bishop Andrew. — Dec. 3-12.

The Conference met on Wednesday, Dec. 3d, in Americus, there
being present a large number of the preachers. Bishop Andrew was
present, in good health, and from time to time, during the session, his
fatherly counsels and affectionate exhortations have been delivered to
the brethren in a spirit truly apostolic. These latter too, received them
as from one greatly beloved by them, one who becomes more and more
endeared to them, as his advancing years warn them that his day of
labor is drawing nearer its close.

The Conference has mourned this year the death of its oldest member.
Rev. Wiley Warwick. He entered the travelling connection early in
the present century, and though for a long time on the superannuated
list, he was always a diligent and faithful minister of the Gospel. A
young man, too, fell — the youngest probationer in the Conference — W.
H. Morton — and one in middle life — A. Neese, who was stricken with
paralytic apoplexy, at an eating-station on the Georgia Railroad, while
on his return from a visit to North-Carohna, and died in a few days, at
home, on the 30th November. Thus the warning has come to all ages
among us, and each one asks : " Who shall next be taken?"

The Conference is proceeding satisfactorily and harmoniously with
its business. It has been a year of general religious prosperity, and,
thus far, one of the most pleasant conferences we ever attended. The
morning prayer-meetings have been diligently attended, and the preach-
ers have communed together in spirit, and felt that they were one in
Christ.

The anniversary meetings have all been spirited and successful.

Twenty -nine travelling and local were admitted to the order of dea-
cons, and ordained on Sabbath morning.

Twenty-five travelling and local were ordained elders on Sabbath
afternoon.

GEOKGIA CONFERENCE. 57

Tract Society. — At the anniversary of this Society addresses were de-
livered by the Rev. Dr. Summers and R. J. Morgan, Esq., of La Grange.
The collection amounted to $500. The cause in the Conference is pros-
pering in every thing except the collections.

Missionary^ Society. — The total amount raised in the Conference for
missions during the year, is $21,000. At the anniversary. Dr. Sum-
mers and Bishop Andrew delivered addresses. A fine spirit prevailed.
" Something more than twelve hundred dollars came in that night."

Bible Society. — The collections for the American Bible Society, in the
Conference, reached the sum of $5400.

Rev. L. Pierce, D.D. — On Sunday night this eminent minister,
preached, by request, his semi-centennial sermon, this being the com-
pletion of the fiftieth year since he was received into full connection
and ordained deacon. He was admitted on trial, at the South-Carolina
Conference, in 1804. His sermon was a master-piece. Its delivery
consumed more than two hours. His comparison between the Method-
ism of the olden time and modern Methodism, was most graphically
drawn ; and I am much mistaken in my augury if the members of the
Georgia Conference did not secretly resolve to stand in the way and
inquire for the old paths, with a determination to return to them and
walk therein. Verily, the words of that wise man are as goads ! I am
happy to say that he is in fine health, and moves about with the agility
of one of his sons. He seems, to borrow his own language, as if he
might preach fifty years longer !

The following preachers were admitted on trial : Robert W. Lovett,
Ed. F. Gates, Jacob C. Neese, Cicero H. Mitchell, Goodman Hughes,
Wm. A. Parks, Jas. D. Jvmkin, Wiley T. Hamilton, Wm. T. McMichael,
Alex. M. Thigpen, Geo. H. Patillo, J. W. Reynolds, Smith Davenport,
Robert W. Dixon, Fr. X. Foster, and Wm. Park.

Educational. — The work of providing for the education of the sons
and daughters of our Church still goes bravely on in Georgia. Emory
College, the first born, is also the best beloved of the Conference, and
Rev. W. J. Parks is stiU detailed for the work of completing the endow-
ment of the College. His success during the past year has been encour-
aging ; and it is hoped that this year will see the work completed. But
the Conference docs not confine her affections to Emory. The Wesley-
an Female College has reached so high a condition of popularity, that it
becomes necessary to enlarge her borders. The trustees were recently
called together and resolved to endeavor to build a large new chapel,
with recitation and music rooms attached, so as to surrender for dormi-
tories the room now occupied for these purposes in the college building.
The Conference was asked to give an agent for raising the money
needed, which it readily granted— and the Rev. J. P. Duncan was ap-
pointed to this service. The citizens of La Grange having proposed to
the Conference to pay $20,000 towards purchasing the large college
building and its appurtenances, belonging to the Messrs. Montgomery
of La Grange, if the Conference would raise another $20,000, and make
it a Conference institution ; the proposal was accepted, and the Rev. W.
G. Connor was appointed agent to raise the stipulated amount. It was
strenuously urged that the money could well nigh be raised among the
Methodists of Western Georgia.

Conference Statistics. — These are not as prosperous as we could de-

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

sire in such a body, but they are not absolutely discouraging. There
is a small increase in the membership. The report shows 50,653 whites,
an increase of 311 ; and 23,550 colored, an increase of 1996. It is pro-
bable that more attention has been given to the purgation of the church
records, and in this way the reports show a smaller increase. These
purgations are essential to accuracy.

The Joint Board of Finance settled with the numerous claimants at
the rate of 78.8-10. The presence of the lay-stewards at Conference
has a good effect.

The session was a harmonious one. Good was accompUshed, and the
year's work, it is hoped, will show the good fruits of the seed sowed in
the good soil of the ministers' hearts.

The next Conference will meet at Washington, Wilkes Co., Ga.

Appointments.
Augusta District. — James B. Payne, P. E.

Augusta, St. John's, A. T. Mann.
St. James, W. M. Crumley.
Trinity col. mis. and Factory mis.,

L. Q. AUen.
Savannah, Trinity, Joseph S. Key.
Wesley chapel, T. H. Jordan.
Andrew chapel, L, B. Payne.
City mission, D. T. Holmes.
Chatham mission, (to be supplied.)
Springfield, P. C. Harris.
Sylvania, J). W. Calhoun.
Scriven col. mis., D. E. Starr.

Waynesboro, W, J. Cotter, J. G.

Worley.
Burke col. mis., R. J. Harwell.
Louisville, J.M. Dickey, A. J. Dean.
Jeiferson col. mis. (to be supplied.)
Richmond, Dennis O'Driscoll.
Warrenton, Josiah Lewis.
Sparta, W. R. Foote.
Hancock, F. F. Reynolds.
Hancock col. mis., Jas. Jones.
Columbia, J. H. Grogan.

Athens District. — John W. Tallev, P. E.

Athens, H. H. Parks.

Athens col. mis., W. S. Turner.

Watkinsville, AV. H. C. Cone, J. C.

Neese.
Factory mission, H. Cranford.
Madison, D. Kelsey.
Morgan, A. W. Rowland.
Kingston col. mis., J. P. Howell.

Greensboro', G. Bright, C. Mitchell.
Lexington, R. Lane, AV". H. Moss.
Washington, J. 0. A. Clarke.
Wilkes, John S. Dunn.
Lincolnton, W. P. Arnold.
Elberton, J. W. Knight, J. W.

McGeehee.
Broad River mis., N. H. Palmer.

Dahlonega District. — D. D. Cox, P. E.

Dahlonega, J. W. Turner, W. B. Ehjay mis., J. H. Mashburn, S. A.

Baily. Clark.

Gainesville, W. W. Brewer. Blairsville mis., Goodman Hughes.

Carnesville, A. J. Deavours, W. A. Morganton mis., Jos. Chambers.

Parks. Murphy mis., J. W. Brady, Jas.

ClarksviUe, T. T. Christian, W. A. V. M. Morris.

Edwards. Clayton mis., R. H. AYaters.
Canton, A\^. G. Allen.

GJiOIlOIA COJ^JFEliE2JCI^:.

Atlanta District. — W. R. Branham, P. E.

Atlanta, Wesley chapel and col. Newton, J. W. Yarborough.

charge, C. W. Key.
Trinity and Evans chapel mis., H.

J. Adams.
Atlanta, C. Trussell.
Decatur, J. M. Armstrong.
Lawrenceville, J. W. Burke, W. T.

Hamilton.
Monroe, R. W. Lovett.

Emory College, W. J. Sassnett, Professor ; W. G. Parks, Agent
G. J. Pearce, Agent Bible Society.

Covington and Oxford, E.W. Speer,
A. Means, supernumerary.

McDonough, A. .Gray.

Powder Spring, A. Dorman, J. R.
Owen, supernumerary.

Marietta, W. J. Scott.

Roswell, I. N. Craven.

Rome District. — J. C. Simmons, P. E.

Spring Place, H. H. McHan.

Rome, "W. H. Evans.
Etowah mis., (to be supplied.)
Cave Spring, T. B. Harben, (one to

be supplied.)
Cedar Town, J. TV". Trawick.
Cassville, L. J. Davies.
Calhoun, R. F. Jones.
Dalton station, M. A. Clouts.
Dalton circuit, 11. P. Pitchford.

La Fayette, W. M. D. Bond, J.

Key.

Dade mis., John Strickland.
SummerviUe, W. F. Conley.
Subligna, W. T. Norman.
Lookout Mountain mis., (to be sup

plied.)

Lagrange District. — S. Anthony, P. E.

Lagrange, Jesse Boring.
Troup, W. A. Florence.
Greenville, J. R. Littlejohn, Geo.

Patillo.
Zebulon, S. C. Quillian.
Jackson, J. Rush.
Griffin station, C. R. Jewett.
Fayetteville, W. M. Watts.

W. G. Conner, Agent Lagrange
C. W. Thomas, Chaplain U.S.N.

Newnan, James Harris.

Palmetto and col. mis., M. H. Hel>-

bard, (one to be supplied.)
Carrolton, R. Stripling.
Villa Rica, Thomas Boring.
Franklin, W. P. Clonts.
West-Point, L. G. Wiggins.
Harralson mis., (to be supplied.)

Female College.

Macon District. — John W. Glenn, P. E.

Macon and Vineville, James E.

Evans, (one to be supplied.)
City mis. and col. ch., W. F. Cook.
Clinton and Bethel col. mis., M.

W. Arnold and F. L. Brantly.
Monticello, J. B. McGehee.
Eaton ton and col. mis., E. P. Birch,

and A. M. Thigpen.
Milledgeville, Thos. U. Stewart.

Jeffersonville, P. M. Ryburn.

Perry and Ocmulgee mis., C
Fulwood and J. M. Bright.

Fort Valley and col. mis., D. Bla-
lock, J. Dunwody.

Culloden and Knoxville mis., F. X.
Forstcr, AV. McMichael.

Forsyth and col. mis., J. M. Mar-
shall and Morgan Bellah.

J. Blakely Smith, Tract Agent.
O. L. Smith, President of Wesleyan Female College.
J. P. Duncan, Agent of AVcsleyan Female College.
E. II. Myers, Ivlitoi .S'. P. A.froMfe.

60 THE ANNUAL CONFEEENCES.

Columbtts District. — L. Rush, P. E.

Columbus, A. M. "Wynn and Geo. Flint River mis., Wyatt Brooks.

G. N. McDonald. Talbotton, R. B. Lester.

Col. charge, E. N. Boland. Talbot cir., R. A. Conner, W. W.
Factory mis., Raleigh Greene. Tidwell.

City mis., W. A. Simmons. Thomaston, Thomas F. Pierce.

Cussetta, T. H. Whitby, J. H. Upson and col. mis., E. W. Rey-

Harris. nolds and M. H. Hamby.

Buena Vista, J. B. Wardlaw and J. Hamilton, W. H. Potter, R. Dixon.

W. Reynolds. Whitesville, M. F. Malsby.
Butler, Smith Davenport.

Lovick Pierce, Conference Missionary.

Americus District. — GEORas C. Clarke, P. E.

Lumpkin, W. G. Parks. Starkville and col. mis., J. T. Ains-
Stewart, J. T. Turner, J. D. Jun- worth.

kin. Americus, J. W. Hinton.

Chattahoochee mis., (to be sup- Americus cir. and Sumpter mis., I.

plied.) L. Potter, W. Park.

Cuthbert and Emmaus, J. B. Jack- Oglethorpe, W. D. Shea.

son. Vienna and Dooly mis., J. E. Sen-
Fort Gaines, D. Crenshaw. tell, A. H. Ogletree.

Terrell, D. Williamson. Hawkinsville, J. H. Reese.

Sandersville District. — ^W. Knox, P. E.

Sandersville, D. J. Myrick. Darien, J. M. Austen.

Irwinton, W. S. Baker. Mcintosh mis., E. White.

Dublin, W. C. Rowland. Emanuel mis., (to be supplied.)

Jacksonville, R. N. Cotter. Bryan and Bullock, B. F. Breed-
Reidsville, W. P. Pledger. love.

HinesviUe, T. S. L. Harwell.

W. D. Matthews, C. L. Hays transferred to the Alabama Conference.
F. Gates and A. M. Davis transferred to Florida Conference.
J. L. Terry transferred to Texas Conference.

XXII. Texas Conference.
Bishop Paine — ^Dec. 3-9.

The seventeenth session was held at Gonzales.

From the Texas Christian Advocate we gather the following items :
Preston W. Hobbs was transferred from the East-Texas Conference ;
A. F. Cox, V. H. Hey, A. Davidson, P. Tacket, and L. S. Friend were
readmitted into the travelling connection. Fourteen were received on
trial. Ten were continued on trial. And two were discontinued at
their own request.

TEXAS CONFERENCE. 61

Nine wcro admitted into full connection.

The missionary collections were largely in advance of any former
year ; and it was resolved to raise $8000 this year.

The literary interests of the Conference are in a prosperous con-
dition, though there are some difficulties with regard to Rutersville
College.

Resolutions in favor of Soule University pledge the members of
the Conference to assist the agent in collecting funds, and to use their
influence to increase its patronage.

The increase of the membership for the year is 1356 whites and 426
colored, in full connection. Increase of members on trial, 97 whites,
and 150 colored.

The Conference had a pleasant session, and the work within its
bounds is in a prosperous condition.

Appointments.

Galveston District. — ^Homek S. Thhall, P. E.

Galveston station, 'William H. Seat. Richmond, Caleb L. Spencer.

Galveston African mission, (to be Columbia, Benjamin D. Dashell.

supplied.) Brazoria, Hiram G. Garden.

Houston, J. E. Ferguson. Oyster Creek, Byron S. Garden.

Union Chapel, Joshua B. Whitten- San Felipe, James McLeod.

berg. Lynchburg, (to be supplied.)

Rutersville District. — Daniel Moese, P. E.

Rutersville circuit, Leonard S. Egypt circuit and col. mis., Wil-

Friend. liam G. Foote, Thomas B. Fergu-

La Grange station, Thomas B. son.

Buckingham. Matagorda, Robert P. Thompson..

Navidad, Allen M. Bos. San Bernard, Robert J. Gill.

Brenham, C. W. Thamas, Thomas Hallettsville, David W. Fly.

"Woldridge, sup. Columbus circuit, John Budd.

Huntaville District. — William C. Lewis, P. E.

Huntsville station, Andrew Davis. Washington, James M. Wesson.

Cold Spring, Edward F. Thwing. Chapel Hill and Caney Chapel,

Montgomery, Calvin H. Brooks. Lewis B. Whipple.

Anderson, Benjamin F. Perry. Brazos African mission, John H.

Plantesville, James H. Addison, Davidson.

F. A. McShan, sup. Madisonville, Lewis J. Wright.

James M. Follansbee, Professor of Languages in Soule University.
Robert AV. Kennon, agent for Soulo University, and attached to Chapel
Hill Quarterly Conference.

Austin District. — John W. Phillips, P. E.

Austin station, James W.Shipman. Bastrop station, Gideon W. Cot-
Austin City mission (to be sup- tingham, and agent for Bastrop
plied.) Academy.

62 THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Austin circuit, Hiram M. Burrows. Bastrop circuit, Isaac G. John.
Cedar Creek, John C. Colbe. San Marcos, William A. Smith.

Lockhart, Henry D. Hubert. San Saba mis., Wesley Smith.

San Antonio District. — ^Asbury Davidson, P. E.

San Antonio station, Horatio V. Ciholo, William P. Read.

Phillpot. Helena, Preston W. Hobbs.

Medina, Augusta C. Fairman. Seguin, Job M. Baker. -

Gonzales station, Ivey H. Cox. Kerrville, Ptobert W. Pierce.

Gonzales circuit, Buckner Harris. Blanco mis., (to be suppUed.)

Victoria District. — Oscar M. Addison, P. E.

Victoria circuit, Joshua H.Shapard. Goliad, Alexander F. Cox

Port Lavaca, James W. Cooley. Live Oak, (one to be suppUed.)

Texana circuit, Henderson S. Laf- Uvalde, James M. Stringfield.

ferty, William F. Compton. Corpus Christi, OrcenethA. Fisher.

Clinton, Thomas F. Windsor. Refugio, William C. Rees.

Guadalupa col. mission. Thomas F. Brownsville, (to be supplied.)

Cook.

Fort Worth District. — James G. Johnson, P. E.

Fort Worth circuit, Fountain P. Gatesville, Benjamin A. Kemp.

Ray. Hillsborough, Jackson L. Crabb.

Clear Fork, Pleasant Tackett. Brazos station, Indian mis., (to be

Fort Belknap, (to be supplied.) supplied.)

Meridian, John R. White.

Springfield District. — ^Mordecai Yell, P. E.

Springfield circuit, William F. Waxahatchie, Henry W. South.

Hubert. Marlin, Robert N. Drake.

Fairfield, George W. Burrows. Boonville, Joseph H. D. Moore.

Corsicania, Walter S. South. Centreville, Hiram M. Glass.

Waco District. — Josiah W. Whipple, P. E.

Waco circuit, Franklin C. Wilkes. Cameron cir., Valentine H. Hey.

Belton circuit, John Carpenter. Caldwell, Solomon S. Yarbrough,

Port Sullivan col. mis., James P. Georgetown, Robert G. Rawley.

Snead. Hamilton, James Rice.

Robert Alexander, Bible Agent and member of the Belton Quarterly
Conference.
Rufus Y. King, Tract Agent and member of the Caldwell Quarterly

Conference.

Texas German District. — John W. De Vilbiss, P. E.

Galveston station, Henry P. Young Victoria mission, Gustavus Elley.

and Peter Moelling, who is also New - Braunfels mis., Frederick
editor of the Eoangelical Apolo- Vordenbimen.

gist. San Antonio mis., Ulrich Stiener.

ALABAMA CONFERENCE, 63

Ilouston mission, Anthony Warns, Fredricksburg and Comfort, Henry

August Engel. Bauer.

Industry mission, John C. Kobb. Llano mission, Charles A. Grote.
Bastrop mis., Edward Schneider.

George S. Gatewood, "William G. Nelms, and Thomas G. Gilmore,
were located at their own request. Isaac P. Jeffers and James A. J.
Smith discontinued at their own request.

Jesse Hord, John Haynie, Daniel Carl, Bryant L. Peel, George Tittle,
and Alfred B. F. Kerr were granted superannuated relations. — Texas
Christian Advocate.

XXIII. Alabama Conference.

Bishop Pierce. — Dec. 10»17.

The Alabama Conference held its session at Tuskegee, Ala., Dec. 10-
17, Bishop Pierce presiding. The Bishop made all possible efforts to
reach the seat of the Conference at the opening of the session, but did
not arrive at Tuskegee until one day's business had been dispatched.
The Rev. E. V. Levert presided before the arrival of the Bishop.

A large and promising class of preachers was admitted on trial, and
an excellent class was received into full connection and to deacon's
orders. Several, however, were located and superannuated, and some
placed on the list of supernumeraries. Four were reported deceased,
namely : Thos. Burpo, James M. Wells, Rob. W. Spence, and Jas. S.
Belton. These all died in faith. Brother Belton was one of our mis-
sionaries to China, and strange, indeed, is the providence by which he
has been so soon removed from that important field, where he gave pro-
mise of being extensively useful. He died at New- York — being favored
in his last hours with the sympathies and kind regards of the excellent
Bishop Janes, his wife, and other fi-iends, whose Christian attentions
were appropriately recognized by an unanimous vote of the Conference.

The report of the Joint Board of Finance was encouraging, and shows
that the financial tone of the Conference is in an improving state.

The Treasurer of the Missionary Society reports over thirty-one
THOUSAND DOLLARS as the revcnue for the past year ; and the Society,
in throwing this banner to the breeze, invites South-Carolina, Georgia,
or any other Confei'ence, to come over and take it. It has resolved not
to raise less the coming year. The anniversary was held on Saturday
night ; eloquent and appropriate addresses were delivered by the Hon.
and Rev. H. W. Hilliard and Bishop Pierce. The subscription — which
was taken in a quiet manner — amounted, we believe, to seven or eight
hundred dollars.

The Tract interest was zealously attended to by the late agent, the Rev.
F. G. Ferguson, and bids fair to be a valuable auxiliary to the Publish-
ing House. The anniversary meeting was one of interest; excellent
speeches having been made by the editor of the Southern Christian Ad-
vocate and the Bishop ; some four or five hundred dollars were raised on
the occasion.

64 THE ANNUAL CONFIiRENCES.

The Committee on Education made a good report, showing that the
institutions of learning under the patronage of the Conference are in a
promising condition. The Southern University has increased its fund
beyond two hundred thousand dollars, and it is still increasing. The
building is in course of erection, the Trustees mahing haste alowly in
this great enterprise. The Tuskegee Female College has developed in a
wondrous manner. It already numbers one hundred and ninety stu-
dents of various grades. The Rev. A. A. Lipscomb, D.D., who was
elected to the presidency at the last Conference, is the very man for the
place he fills. He is a gentleman of scholarly attainments, habits, and
tastes, and makes his impress upon every branch of the institution : the
laboratory, the library, the department of art, the domestic regime —
every thing shows that a master mind is there. The building is one of
the finest collegiate edifices in the United States. It is of the Roman-
esque order, and is nearly finished. It is susceptible of enlargement,
and the great influx of students shows that it must very soon be en-
larged. Though a costly edifice, the liberality of the citizens of Tuske-
gee and the surrounding region has been so great, that only about six
thousand dollars were due upon it ; and half of that amount was sub-
scribed at an educational meeting held in the splendid hall of the Col-
lege on Monday night, after two capital speeches by Dr. Rivers, Presi-
dent of the Southern Wesleyan University, at Florence, Ala., and the
Hon. and Rev. H. W. Hilliard ; it is rarely one's good fortune to listen
to platform speaking of such excellence.

The Sunday-school and Bible interests received considerable attention
from the Conference, and one of the oldest ministers, the Rev. E. V.
Levert, was appointed Agent of the Sunday-school cause, for the ensuing
year.

A memorial from the Quarterly Conference of Montgomery station,
praying the Conference to sanction the establishment of a Church pa-
per at Montgomery, was presented by Messrs. HiUiard and Wilkinson,
and the measure was ably advocated by them and others ; but, meeting
with strong opposition in view of the relation of the Conference to our
existing publishing interests, and particularly to the New- Orleans Christ-
ian Advocate, the memorial was withdrawn.

A resolution was adopted by the Conference, nem. con., and without
discussion, memorializing the next General Conference to expunge the
rule respecting "the buying and selling of men, women, and children,
with an intention to enslave them," from the General Rules of the
Church, and requesting the Bishops to pass round the resolution to all
the other Conferences for their concurrence.

Death of the Rev. Josiah Evans.

This aged local preacher of the Methodist E. Church, South, left his
home in Russell Co., Ala., a few days ago, and came to Tuskegee to at-
tend the session of the Alabama Conference. He worshipped with us
in the congregation, and mingled with the large crowd that thronged
the conference room. He was noticed by many of the visitors and
members because of his venerable appearance, his gray locks, his dig-
nified mien and his healthful condition. The Conference closed its ses-
sion this day, Dec. 17th, about 6^ P.M., and he was returning from the

ALABAMA COIfFERENCIi:.

College chapel, where the appointments were read, to his lodgings.
Just as he arrived at the Court-house Square, he fell on his face inthe
street. On being discovered he was taken into a store, and physicians
were promptly called in, but in fifteen minutes from the time of ialling
he breathed his life out. The physicians are of the opinion that the dis-
ease by which his life has been so suddenly terminated is apoplexy.

The next session of the Alabama Conference is to be held at Selma
the appointments for the year accompany this hasty communication :

A2ypointme)its.
MoUU District— JosnvA T. Heard, P. E.

Mobile :

Franklin street, Thos. J. Koger.

State street colored mission,
Alex. McBride.

German mission, (to be supplied.)

St. Francis street, Edwin Bald-
win.

Little Zion colored mission, (to
be supplied.)

Wesley Chapel, Thos. C. Weir.

West Ward, Geo. R. Talley.

Toulminville and Turnerville, (to

be supplied.)
Pascagoula, Wm. A. Montgomery.
Black Creek mission, Benj. G.

Fleming.
St. Stephens, Wm. A. Sampey.
Maurila mission, Robert Smilie.
Miltonville, John H. Gibbs.
Enterprise, Junius E. Newman,

Abram Adams.

DemopoUs District. — James A. Heakd, P. E.

Demopolis, Thos. P. Crymes.
Areola colored mission, Thos. Y.

Armstrong
Spring Hill, James H Ewing.
Linden, Geo. F. Ellis.
Dayton, Mark S. Andrews.
Dayton colored mission, John C.

Huckabee.
Butler, James M. Campbell.

Uniontown and Cottonwood colored
mission, Wm. P. Harrison.

Orrville, Lawrence M. Wilson, Mo-
ses E. Butt.

Bladon's Springs, Geo. A. Shaeffer,
Bennet B. Ross, sup.

Gaston, Leroy Massingale.

McKinley colored mission, Rob. Y.
Rew.

Macon District. — Thos. Y. Ramsey, P. E.

Macon, Wm. E. M. Linfield.
Warsaw and Bogue Chitto colored

mission, Wm. C. Hearn.
Scoola, Danl. M. Hudson.
Sumterville, Whitman C. Turner.
Gainesville, (to be supplied.)
Livingston, Jos. B. Cottrell.
Lauderdale, And. J. Coleman, Wm.

R. Towles.

Belmont, James W. Shores, (one
to be supplied.)

Forkland and Watson's Chapel,
Wm. Ira Powers, James M. Pat-
ton, sup.

Willow Pond colored mission, (to
be supplied.)

Eutaw, Rob. M. Saunders.

De Kalb, James R. Thomas.

TasTcaloosa District. — Jos. J. Hotchinson, P. E.

Tuskaloosa, Saml. Anustrong. Greensboro' colored mission, (to be

Tuskaloosa cir., James L. Sampey. supplied.)

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Scottsville mission, John T. M.

Gregory.
North-Port, Samuel Briggs.
New-Lexington, Evans Nicholson.
Brush Creek, Jos. T. Curry.
New-Prospect, James A. Peebles.
Newbern and Oak Grove, Wm. M.

Motley.
German Creek colored mission, (to

be supplied.)

Greensboro', Edward Wadsworth.

Prairie Creek colored mission,
John W. McCann.

Marion, Phil. P. Neely.

Jones Valley, Edward McMeans.

Cahawba River mission, (to be sup-
plied.)

Tuskaloosa Methodist Female High
School, John M. Bonnell, Prin-
cipal.

Christopher C. Callaway, Agent for Southern University, and attached
to Greensboro' Quarterly CoiSerence.

ColuiTfibus District. — George Shaeffer, P. E.

Columbus, Christopher D. Oliver.
Columbus colored mission, (to be

suplied.)
Plymouth colored mission, (to be

supplied.)
Columbus circuit, "Wm. Murrah.
Fayetteville, Francis Walker.
Moscow, James M. Garm.
Caledonia, Wm. Vaughan.
Athens, George W. Brown.
Mt. Zion, Saiii. N. Adams.

Pickensville and Carrolton, Gabriel

Hawkins.
Greene, James D. Cameron.
Pickens, Julius N. Glover, Jos. B.

Stone.
Macon circuit, John W. Ellis.
Prairie Hill and colored mission,

Silas H. Cox.
Plum Creek colored mission, Elisha

Callaway.

Blountsmlle Mission District. — Ohas. Stridek, P. E.

BlountsviUe, James R. Pickett.

Jasper, Joseph Linn.

Murphrees Valley, Nathaniel H.
Self.

Hancock mission, Rufus Nicholson.

PikeviUe mis., Ulysses L. Thomp-
son.

Warrior mission, Abijah Watson.

Ashville, Warren D. Nicholson.

HarpersviUe, Learner B. McDonald.

Little River mission, (to be sup-
plied.)

Lebanon, Uriah Williams.

Town Creek mission, (to be sup-
plied.)

Short Creek mission, Robt. R. Ro-
berts.

Talladega District. — Willis D. Matthews, P. E.

Talladega, John S. Moore.
Coosa mission, Geo. J. Mason.
Talladega and Alexandria colored

mission, Edward Patton.
Weewokaville, John B. Powers.
Marble Valley mission, Jos. T.

Abernathy.
Socapatoy, Danl. G. W. Ellis.
Tallapoosa, (to be supplied.)
Randolph, James M. Towles.
Uillabec, (to be supplied.)

Arbacoochee mission, (to be sup-
plied.)

Jacksonville, Malcolm M. Graham.

White Plains, Rob. S. Woodward.

Centre, Rob. J. Sampler, (one to
be supplied.)

Cedar Bluff, James A. Neely.

Gadsden, Morgan C. Turrcntine.

Talladega Female Institute, Francis
M. Grace, Principal.

ALABAMA CONFERENCE.

Sianmerfield District. — John TV. Starr, P. E.

Selma, "Wm. Shapard.

Summerfield, John W. Rush.

Ockmulgee colored mission, Green-
berry Garrett.

Perryville, Matthew "W. Ryan.

Centreville, Elisha Phillips.

Monte vallo, Benj. S. Williams.

Wetumpka, John D. Fisher.

Autauga, Wm. B. Neal, Ed. P.
McLelland.

PrattviUe, Josiah Bancroft.

Chestnut Creek, John Foust.

Cahawba, Walter H. McDaniel.

Hamburg, Ezekiel T. Nabors.

Centenary Institute, (female de-
partment,) Archelaus H. Mit-
chell, President.

Centenary Institute, (male depart-
ment,) DanL C. B. Connerly,
Principal.

Montgomery District — Oliver R. Blue, P, E.

Montgomery, Thos. W. Dorman.

Montgomery colored mission, Jas.
W. Bro\TO.

Catoma colored mission, John T.
Roper.

Montgomery circuit, James A. Cle-
ments, Isaac J. Tatum.

Tuskegee circuit, Cornelius N.
McLeod, James W. Glenn.

Andrew colored mission, John N.
Dupree.

Tuskegee, James L. Cotton.

Crawford, John C. Stricklin, An-
son West.

Uchee mission, Charles L. Hayes.

Auburn, Jacob M. Jennings.

Lafayette, John C. McDaniel.

Oak Bowery, John W. Lancy,
Lewis F. Dowdell.

Tallassee, Robt. R. Dickinson.

DadeviUe, Francis H. Wardlaw.

Ed. J. Hamill, Agent for Male College at Auburn.

Lowndesboro'' District. — Anthony S. Dickinson, P. E.

Lowndesboro', HaynevUle, and

Bethel, Daniel Duncan.
Lowndesboro' colored mission, Jas.

Hightower.
Big Swamp colored mission, John

W. Broxson.
Argus, John A. Spence.
Greenville, Asa Skinner.
Troy, Billups D. Gayle.
Geneva, John W. Solomon.

Elba, Zaccheus DowUng.
Walton mission, Jefferson Bond.
Pleasant Hill, Thos. S. Abernathy,

Jr.
Pleasant Hill colored mission, Pe-

leg R. McCrary.
Union, Sheldon J. Kelly.
Milton, Wm. M. Shockley.
Escambia, Jos. W. Hightower.

Eufaula District. — Fred. G. Ferguson, P. E.

Eufaula, Wm. A. McCarty.

Glennville, Wm. K. Norton, Robt.
Rylander.

Glennville colored mission, (to be
suppUed.)

Villula colored mission, John Wil-
liamson.

Otho colored mission, (to be sup-
plied.)
Abbeville, John F. Dickjnson
WoodviUe, Lewis P. Golson.
Jackson, Joshua W. Jordan.
Greenwood, Thos. L. Densler.
Marianna, Walter C. Ilnrris.

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

Enon and Barbour, Stephen F. Pil-
ley, James F. R. Brandon.

Barbour colored mission, (to be
supplied. )

Chunnenuggee mission, John "W.
Mabry.

Perote colored mission, (to be sup-
plied.)

Clayton, Lafayette Patterson.

Choctavrhatchee, (to be supplied.)
St. Andrew's Bay mission, Francis

M. Grain.
Apalachicola, (to be supplied.)
Chunnenuggee Female College,

Wm. H. Ellison, President.
Glennville High School, Allen S.

Andrews, Professor.

Camden District. — Dugald Carmichael, P. E.

Camden, Warrenton S. Wingfield.
Cedar Creek, Ebenezer Hearn,

Theophilus Mangham.
SuggsviUe, Alexander M. Samford.
Gainestown miss., (to be supplied.)
Grove HiU, Wm. H. Carter.
Lower Peach Tree, Jas. B. Rabb.

Mt. Pleasant, Henry Urquhart.
Fish River mission, John Latham.
Pensacola, Theophilus Moody.
Navy Yard, Francis T. J. Brandon.
Black's Bend, Danl. T. Mellard.
Monroeville, Wm. P. Miller, Neil
Gillis.

Josiah Barker, Agent for Tract Society.
Eugene V. Levert, Agent for Sunday-schools.
Thomas 0. Summers, Editor of Books.
Jefferson Hamilton, Secretary of Tract Society.
Next Conference to be held at Selma, Ala.

XXIV. Flokeda Conference.

Bishop Andrew. — Dec. 24-30.

The letter from Rev. W. J. Parks tells us of the opening of the Florida
Conference. A private note from Rev. J. E. Evans states that the Con-
ference was a pleasant one, that more than $5000 had been collected for
missions, at the Anniversary about $600, that some $22-5 was received
at the Tract Anniversary, that Bishop Andi-ew was in fine health and
spirits, doing valuable work for the cause of Methodism. Finally, Rev.
P. P. Smith, Secretary, states that the Conference adjourned on Tues-
day, the 30th December, and he sends us the

Appointments.
Tallaliassee District. — J. R. Plumer, P. E.

Tallahassee, J. M. Wright.
Quincy, J. Anderson.
ApalachicWa, G. W. Fagg.
Leon circuit, G. W. Pratt.
Leon colored mission, J. H. M.

Gardner.
Chairs col. miss., 0. B. Standley.

Gadsden circuit, E. B. Duncan.
South-Gadsden, A. W. Harris.
Newport, J. 0. Branch.
Wakulla, V. C. Cannon.
Agent A. B. Society, S. P. Richard-
son.
Agent Tract Society, James Peeler.

FLORIDA CONPEKENCE.

Bainhridge District. — Wm. M. Kennedy, P. E.

Albany, F. A. Branch.
Bainbridge, W. L. Murphy.
Newton, J. A. Towers.
Morgan mission, T. 0. Coleman.

Milford, J. M. N. Lowe.
Blakely, R. H. Howren.
Decatur, T. A. Oaruth.

Thomasville District. — P. P. Smith, P. E.

Thomasville, A. Graham.
Grooversville, M. C. Smith.
Troupville, 0. Raiford.
Grand Bay miss., J. W. Jackson.
Isabella miss., (to be supplied.)

Alapaha miss., A. Davis.
Oclocknee miss., T. J. Johnson.
Moultrie miss., C. P. Murdock.
Flint River, F. R. C. EUis.
Principal F. Institute, R. H. Luckey.

Madison District. — J. "W". Mills, P. E.

Madison circuit, D. L. Kennedy.
South -Madison miss., T. R. Bamett.
Madison colored mission, (to be

supplied.)
Aucilla colored mission, W. W.

Griffin.

SantafFee, (to be supplied.)
Hamilton, W. K. Turner, J. Oarra-

way, sup.
Suwanee miss., W. P. Okane.
Columbia, S. A. McCook.
Alligator, J. M. Hendry.

St. Mary's District.— T. N. Gardner, P. E.

St. Mary's, J. W. Poynts.
Centervillage and Satilla, G. Roys-

ter, F. M. Wilson.
Brunswick station, Thos. Gardner.
Brunswick circuit, A. M. Davis.
Altamaha mission, W. Hall.
Alabaha mission, J. L. Williams.

Hohnesville, R. J. McCook, (one to

be supplied.)
Waresboro, W. Peeler.
Irwin miss., J. J. Giles.
Ockmulgee, E. F. Gates.
Clinch mission, R. F. Lanier.
St. Mary's River miss., S. G. Childs.

Jachsonville District. — R. M. K. Tydings, P. E,

Jacksonville, J. W. Timberlake.
Black Creek, W. Edwards, W. G.

M. Quarterman.
Pilatka, M. V. Wells.
Fernandino, Wm. Davies.
Duval miss., J. W. A. Johnson.

Orange miss., L. B. Giles.
Volesia miss., S. F. Cobb.
Newnansville, J. K. Glover, E. J.

Darden.
St. John's, A. Johnson.
Principal E. F. Sem., J. 0. Ley,

Tamipa District.— T. W. Cooper, P. E.

Key West, W. J. Duval. Hernando miss., J. M. Mills.

Tampa, D. B. Lyne. Marion, J. J. Richards.

Manatee, (to be supplied.) Cedar Keys, B. J. Johnson.

Ilillsboro miss., J. T. Stockton. Sumpter miss., J. F. Andrews.

J. M. McCrary transferred to Mississippi Conference.

The next Conference to be held at Jacksonville, East-Florida.

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

CHURCH MEMBERSHIP.

The details of these statistics occupy so much of our space that
we have concluded to omit them. They are found in the General
Minutes, published by our agents at Nashville, Tenn. The following
is the

General Recapitulation.

CONFERENCES.

get,

73
*> .

TO c3

■a .

O D

2;^

■as

otal Minis-
ters and
Members.

u
o

1. Kentucky,

2.54

16,548

5.267

720

24,202

41G

2. Louisville,

198

19,416

1682

3,7.56

272

2.5,417

4.35

3. Missouri,

108

15,306

1,602

17.095

1513

4. St. Louis,

104

173

17.649

1,344

248

19,.526

2568

5. Tennessee,

176

382

29,937

4201

7,333

700

42,763

883

6. Holston.

103

371

35,394

4078

3,629

377

182

44.145

107

7. Memphis,

139

385

28,771

33.6

7,278

371

40,266

1828

8. Mississippi,

109

191

13,586

27id

10.986

2825

30,421

4305

9. Louisiana,

100

6.136

12.3

4,479

703

12,719

958

10. Virginia.

150

186

30,512

29W

6,587

40,390

798

11. Western Virginia,

7,947

294

8,354

1039

12. Nortli-Carolina,

108

202

28.5>i4

3380

11,026

1400

44,693

2080

13. Georgia,

173

566

44,252

5519

18,616

3341

72,519

1071

14. Soutii-Carolina,

129

239

30,593

4345

37,933

5755

79.005

1253

15. Alabama,

173

507

33,108

.5977

17,322

3489

60,584

POO

16. Florida,

6.179

1588

4.133

780

12..S46

1710

17. Texas,

146

6,348

2621

1,791

839

11.8.^8

3:J90

18. East-Texas,

154

9.882

2775

1,537

413

14,826

3002

19. Arliansas,

125

10,213

982

11,370

1320

20. Wachita,

126

6,511

1683

1,241

685

10,297

810

21. Pacific,

784

232

1,069

183

22. Indian Mission,

316

3166

3,648

2078

151

4628

397,727

49,645

147,472

22,678

3613

627.992

27,022

2933

2078

151

4628

49,645

22,678

3613

627,992

Total in 1855-6,

447,372

170,1.50

Total in 1854-5,

1942

150

4359

428,511

164,584

Deer.

3757

603,303

Net

Inci-ease,

136

269

18,851

5,566

144

24,689

incr.

[The Kansas Mission Conference was organized at the last session of the St. Louis Confer-
ence ; its numbers are embraced in the report of the latter Conference. — The transferred
preachers are reckoned with those of the Conferences to which they now belong.]

Preachers admitted on Trial.

The following list embraces the names of all the preachers admitted
on trial in 1855; those for 1856 must be reported in the volume for
next year, as the list could not be made out accurately from the news-
paper accounts :

Kentucky.

Wm. W. Chamberlain, John M. Johnson,

Seneca X. Hall, Jacob Ditzler,

Oliver W. Landreth, Peter E. Kavanaugh,

John Humphrey, Joseph B. Smith,

Leroy C. Danly and Richard J. Dungan, elders, readmitted

David Walk,
Milton Mann,
James Gragg,
Elias Botner. — 12.

CnUKCn MEMBEKSniP.

Louisville.

John H. H. Young,

William Childers,
Cornelius D. Donald
son,

Thomas B. Lewis,
Littlcbcrry P. Gren-
shaw. — 8

Jeremiah J. Talbot,
Gideon Gooch,
William W. Lam-
buth,

William Holman, Samuel F. Johnson, Samuel D. Akin, elders, re-
admitted.

Missouri.

John W. Cook,
Maximilian Sutro,
Levi T. M'Niely,
Joseph H. Pritchett,

James V. Heddenburg,
George W. Neville,
John C. Thompson,
Henry W. Webster,
William A. Rice,
Josiah M'Cary,
Alvin Rucker,
William R. HiUiard,

Philip Earth,
Caleb B. Davis,
John W. Judd,
Alfred D. Parks,
G. M. Everhart,
Henry C. Wheeler,
John A. Cox,

Denizen Mason,
Carr W. Pritchett,
Robert A. Austin,
James Stanley,

St. Louis.

Pinckney L. Turner,
John W. Bond,
Milton Atkisson,
Thomas Glanville,
Jona. M. Wheeler,
Edwin H. White,
Edmund Garrison,
Asa Step,

Tennessee.

Joseph H. Stone,
George W. Brown,
Edwin W. Coleman,
Mortimer B. Pearson.
Moses L. Whitten,
John R. Abernethy,
Andrew J. Wooldridge,

Joab Spencer,
Levin M. Lewis. — 10.

William Griffin,
William Barnett,
John Hale,
Jesse H. Gumming,
Turner W. Davis,
Michael G. McMillin,
Claiborn Jones,
Howell E. Smith.— 24.

Benjamin F. Humph-
ries,
Nimrod A. Keyes,
Sterhng M. Cherry,
John A. Edmondson,
Matthew H. Fielding,
John S. Allen.— 20.

Readmitted : Richard P. Ransom, Isaac C. Woodward, Thomas H.
Woodward, all in elder's orders. — 3.

Holston.

Alexander E. Wood-
ward,
Geo. W. Smith,
George W. Miles,
WiUiam Wyatt,
Jesse A. Hyden,
John Cox,

Readmitted in elder'
R. M. Whaley.— 3.

Amon Kendall,
Andrew C. Smith,
Thomas G. Lane,

Rufus K. Scruggs,
Charles T. McDonald,
William H. H. Duggan,
Wm. H. Howell,
Gaston M. Massey,
Alex. F. EngUsh,
George W. Penly,

s orders: Wm. Robeson, John Reynolds, and

Andi'ew Copeland,
Ebenezer Stockbridge,
George Stewait,
Hemy P. Waugh,
George Creamer,
John W. Bird.— 19.

Memphis.

Alexr. S. Hamilton,
Henry B. Covington,
Joseph B. Harris,

Robert Parrin,
Eldridge L. Fisher,
Josiah Greer,

THE ANNUAL CONFERENCES.

John G. Davie,
Albert Thomas. — 15.

Horace Jewell, George K. Brooks,

Daniel McBride, WiUiam Harrison,

Keadmitted : J. T. W, Auld, Joseph Johnson, Thomas Joiner, and
Ko bert L. Andrews. — i.

Mississippi.

Thomas L. McGraw,
WiUiam G. MiUsaps,
Ebenezer M. Smalley,
John J. Millsaps,
Thomas M. Ward,

Henry T. Beard,
John W. Shelton,
David Watson,
Benjamin Avent,
John Boyes,

Louisiana.

Jesse Tulton, Jr., Thos. H. McClendon,

James F. Fontaine, Jack S. Hewitt,

Allen W. Harper, Dabney P. Cullin,

Readmitted, Benjamin 0. Steagall.

James J. Lumpkin,
Robert B. Beadles,
Thomas H. Boggs,

James M. Lilly,
Hiram Mooi*e,

Virginia.

James B. Fitzpatrick,
John S. Moore,
William F. Owens,

Western Virginia.
Robert N. Crooks,

Readmitted, George B. Poage, elder.

Marquis L. Wood,
Thomas L. Triplett,
Moses J. Hunt,
James B. Bobbitt,
Medicus H. Wright,

David W. Calhoun,
Benjamin F. Perry,
Habersham J. Adams,
William A. Edwards,
WiUiam A. Morton,
WaUace B. Baily,
Absalom H. Ogletree,

John W. Murray,
Randolph R. Pegues,
Andrew J. Evans,

John W. Lawler,
Robert A. Markham,

North- Carolina.

Oscar J. Brent,
Joseph Wheeler,
James W. Wheeler,
Marcus C. Thomas.
Jesse A. Cunningham,

Georgia.

William C. Rowland,
David B. Starr,
John W. McGehee,
Josiah Bullock,
WiUiam F. Cook,
Peter W. Ryburn,
Elijah N. Boland,

South- Carolina.

James M. CUne,
Hilliard Judge Glenn,
Samuel J. Hill,

Alabama.

William A. Montgo-
mery,

David M. Wadsworth.
John D. WiUis,
Kenneth A. Jones,
Jephtha S. ColUns.-14.

W. G. McGaughey,
J. F. Scurlock,
Robert A. New. — 9.

Cyrus Doggett,
Benj. F. Story. — 8.

Chas. F. Crooks. — 4.

John L. Newby,
Joseph C. Thomas,
Washington D. Mee*
cham. — 13.

Joseph B. Key,
Thos. H. Stewart,
John W. Turner,
Benj. F. Breedlove,
James V. M. Morris,
John W. McCrary.-
20.

WiUiam J. Black,

John W. Puett.

Geo. K. Andrews.- — 9.

Daniel G. W. EUis,
Robert Smilie,

CHURCH :StEJlBERSHlP.

Nathaniel H. Self,
Landon J. Sclioolar,
James A. Neelj,
Evans Nicholson,
Benj. G. Flemming,
Ezekiel T. Nabors,

Daniel T. MeUard,
Neil Gillis,
James W. Glen,
Warren D. Nicholson,
James K. Armstrong.

—22.

James Hightower,
Francis Jeter,
George C. Bonner,
Francis H. Wardlaw,
Jeremiah M. Boland,
Joseph Abernathy,

Readmitted in deacon's orders : James J. Pickett, Nathaniel M. Skip-
worth. In elder's orders : Uriah Williams. — 3

Florida,

Joseph A. W. Johnson, Willis P. Ocain, Robert F. Lenair,

Valarious C. Cannon, Thomas A. Carruth, James W. Points,
Grandison Royster, John F. Andrews, James M. Mills,

Thos. R. Barnett, Theophilus J. Johnson, Isaac A. Towers,

Samuel S. Cobb, Charles P. Murdock, Jas. A. McCollum. — 15.

Readmitted : William J. Duval, elder ; Aaron W. Harris, Milton C.
Smith, elder. — 3.

Texa^.

Isaac P. Jeffries,
John Carpenter,
Henry Bowers,
Robert W. Pierce,
Robert J. Gill,

Frederick ImhoS",
Hiram M. Gloss,
Joshua R. Whittem-
berg. — 13.

James A. J. Smith,
Benjamin A. Keamp,
Hiram M. Burrows,
Geo. W. BuiTows,
Wesley Smith,

Readmitted : Charles W. Thomas, John C. Kolbe, Joseph P. Sneed,
Job M. Baker, James W. Shipman, elders ; Robert G. Rawley, William
G. Foote.— 7.

East-Texas.

Isaac W. Overall,
WUliam H. Crawford,
Charles L. Hammill,
Thomas W. Rogers,

John. F. Lard,
John Stubblefield,
Issac B. Walker,
Randle Odum,

Arkansas.

Martin Matthews,
Isaac Alexander. — 10.

Frederick S. Wood. — 5.

William H. Walton, Benjamin F. Hall,
James M. Burkhart, James D. Gordon,
Readmitted : Ambrose M. Barrington, elder.

Wachita.

Edwin W. Ware, Littleberry Souther- Elisha Stevens,

Marshall H. Wells, land, Josh. J. Kennedy.-

Readmitted: Hezekiah AY. Balch, Joseph Turrentine, elders. — 2

-5.

James B. WiUiams,
Solomon D. Bunch,
Henry C. Settle,

Isaac S. Newman,
Wyatt Coffelt,

Pacijk^ .

J. L. S. Woods,
J. G. Johnson,

Indian Mission.
James McHenry,

David Beauchamp,
E. G. Cannon. — 7.

Francis M. Paine,

14: DEDICATIOX OF CHUECHES.

CHAPTER ill

DEDICATION OF CHURCHES.

[Editorial of the Naslwille Advocate, Jan. 3.]

Gaeeetsbueg, Ky.

The Sabbath came.* It was a day anxiously looked for by the few of
our brethren hving in the vicinity. Although an old settled neighbcn'-
hood, where many persons of wealth and influence reside, the Method-
ists have heretofore had no foothold — no house of worship, no congre-
gation, no church. Two years ago, Brother English, tlu'ough the influ-
ence of Brother Kaj^, preached occasionally; and last year Brother
Owen had a regular monthly appointment, occupying the Baptist
church, which was kindly tendered to him and his congregation. A
small society was organized ; and the idea of erecting a house of God
was conceived. The ground was selected — a beautiful grove of forest
trees on the main road near the village. The house was completed at a
cost of some sixteen hundi'ed dollars. It is a handsome edifice, capable
of seating comfortably four hundred persons. The pillars are stone ; the
main body of the house frame-work, neatly and substantially built of
good materials, painted and plastered, all in good style — a neat pulpit,
comfortable seats, good stoves, and every thing necessary for the con-
venience of a worshipping congregation. The house was to be dedi-
cated ; and our friends were solicitous that the weather should be favor-
able. But the dark clouds, the misty rain, the cold north winds, and
the prospect of a snow-storm — all threatened the destruction of their
hopes. Yet, nevertheless, we had a good congregation; and, at the
close of the sermon, more than six hundred dollars were contributed to
liquidate the debt that remained to be paid. Much of this was given
by those unconnected with our church. Brother Baldwin preached in
the afternoon. The house is an ornament to the neigborhood, and an
honor to the hearts and heads of those who projected and prosecuted
the work. We trust it will be the birth-place of scores and hundreds
of immortal souls who shall be brought to God.

'D^

[From New- Orleans Advocate, March 23.]

Beunswick Landixg, Miss.

One more sanctuary has been erected ; one more gate to heaven has
been opened. The Church Universal, which consists of all who truly
repent and sincerely believe the Gospel, has been enlarged by one more
edifice for the reception of weeping penitents and rejoicing Christians.

* Dec. 23, 1856.

MONTGOMERY, ALA.. 75

Our new church was dedicated to Almighty God on last Sabbath,
(fourth Sabbath in February.) The dedication sermon was delivered
by Rev. Charles K. Marshall. All who heard it were much delighted,
and I humbly trust many were truly benefited. Text, Psalms 27 : 4 :
" One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after ; that I
may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life, to behold the
beauty of the Lord, and to inquire in his temple." Well did the preacher
enioin upon all the importance of following the example of the Psalmist
ii/seeking the thing which we desire of the Lord. He showed by many
striking examples, that this was done, and done with zeal, so far as the
things of this world are concerned, but that it was often neglected in
those things which pertain to the salvation of the soul. He spoke at
large on the privileges of the sanctuary, where children are taught the
elements of the Christian religion, where prayer is continually offered,
where the word of God is read, and where the everlasting Gospel is
preached by the ambassador of Christ. He spoke of the connection
between the pastor and his charge ; and on this point the preacher en-
tered into the feelings of his theme, and drew tears from the eyes not
wont to weep. " To behold the beauty of the Lord." Upon this point,
also, the preacher dwelt at some length ; talked of the moral perfections
of the Deity, the beauties of holiness, and the deformities of sin. He
spoke of intellectual and moral beauty in man, and the importance of
intellectual and moral culture to fit and quahfy us for the discharge of
tlie duties we owe to our fellow-beings in our pilgrimage through life.

The day of our meeting was somewhat unfovorable, and the congre-
gation was not so large as was expected ; and yet all, both preacher and
people, seemed to be pleased with the dedication services.

Our church building cost tn^o thousand dollars. It is near the river,
and five miles below the county site. The building is entirely finished,
and displays the charms of a simple architecture and the beauties of un-
pretending taste. I ti'ust and pray that this building may be to many
an anxious soul " none other than the house of God and the gate of
heaven." J- T. Dew.

MONTGOIIEEY, Ala.

The Rev. Dr. Dorman commimicates the following account of the
services at the dedication of a new church in Montgomery, Alabama,
to the New-Orleans Christian Advocate:

" Our dedicatory services were held on Sunday, March 2, according
to previous notice. Sermon by Bishop Pierce, from 1 Cor. 1 : 22, 24.
It was worthy of the occasion. At the close of the sermon, the Bishop
took up a collection of about $5000, thus paying the church out of debt
and leaving something for certain sundi-ies yet necessary to the more
perfect completion of the building.

"The Bishop proved himself to be a first-rate beggar, as well as a
good preacher. In the course of the collection an excellent move was
made by our good brother. Col. Thorington, who moved to be one of
t.'n to give each an additional hundred dollars to constitute the Bishop
a life-member of the Montgomery station. An appeal was made to
(ieorgia, and the money was forthcoming. He is the man that Georgia
delights to honor, and he is every way worthy of it.

DEDICATION OF CHURCHES.

After the collection, the dedicatory prayer was offered up by the
v^enerable father of the Bishop, Dr. L. Pierce, who preached for us a
most excellent sermon at 3 P.M., from Psalm 34 : 3. The Doctor
was fully himself; and were it not for his frosty temples and his fur-
rowed face, the hearer would never have supposed, from the sermon, so
full of fresh and vigorous thought, that the preacher had reached the
maximum average of ' the days of our years.' At night the Bishop
preached again, and left us the next morning for his home, from which
he had been long absent."

Cambridge, Mo.

Bro McAnally : We have the gratifying news to announce that our
new church-house in Cambridge was dedicated to the Lord on last Sab-
bath — sermon by Brother James Mitchell, to a large and attentive con-
gregation ; and money raised to pay the debt — say about five hundred
and fifty dollars.

Bro. Wm. T. Lucky, of Howard High School, was present, and
preached in the evening, when they raised about fifty dollars more to
replenish our Sunday-school library. Yours, truly,

Cambridge, May 1, 1S56. "W. E. GoODE.

[From Nashville Advocate, May 22.]

Bell's Chapell, Ky.

Rev. F. E. Pitts dedicated, on the second Sabbath in this month, a
new house of worship, known as Bell's Chapel, six miles from Elkton,
Ky. The house we learn is a spacious, comfortable brick edifice, located
in an excellent neighborhood. The occasion, we learn, was interesting,
and the collection to liquidate the remainder of the debt handsome.
May it be a place where many souls shall be brought to God !

[From the Richmond Advocate, May 29.]

Elliott's Hill, Va.

It gives me great pleasure to inform the friends of the Lexington cir-
cuit, that we have just dedicated a new and beautiful church to the ser-
vice of God at Elliott's Hill. Praise to the members of other denomi-
nations, and the citizens of Rockbridge generally, for the liberality with
which they contributed to the erection of this building. We have a
noble little band of Southern Methodists here, and the completion of
this edifice is not only an occasion of great rejoicing with them, but it
has given a fresh impulse to our cause in this immediate neighborhood.
"We reorganized a Sabbath-school on yesterday morning, under new and
flattering auspices. The entire community, religious and irreligious,
seem to be alive to its interests. The dedicatory sermon was preached
by Rev. J. L. Clark from Ex. 33 : 14. It was truly a solemn and im-
pressive discourse, ilay it long be remembered.

Lexington Cir., Va. Con/., May 18, 1856. Geo. F. Doggett.

GRIFFIN, GA. 77

[From the Noiih- Carolina Advocate, May 30.]
Stricklaxdsville, N. C.

According to previous notice, the new church at Stricklandsville, on
the Duplin circuit, was dedicated to the worship of God on the first
Sunday in May. The day dawned with a clear and serene sky ; and
whed the sun arose and formed its rays of light upon the world, ali
nature smiled and wore a delightful charm. Early in the day a vast
concourse of people assembled at the church. At the appointed hour
the Rev. C. F. Deems, D.D., arose, and after the usual introductory de-
votions, delivered an interesting, eloquent, and impressive sermon. 1
shall not attempt an analysis of the discourse ; suffice it to say, that it
was the happiest eifort to which I have ever listened. In this judgment
all whom I have heard speak of it fully concur. The speaker lingered
around the cross, and hundreds hung in breathless silence upon his lips,
as though one fi-om the bright world had come down to preach the un
searchable riches of Christ. The impressions made by this discourse
will never be obliterated, and the fi'uits from the seed sown, will be
gathered and enjoyed in the kingdom of God.

After the sermon, a collection of about four hundred dollars was taken
up, to liquidate the remainder of the debt incurred in building the
church. Several other ministers being present, the exercises of the
meeting were continued for several days. The congregations were large,
attentive, and serious ; several penitents approached the altar of prayer,
and one soul was converted to God, and we are looking forward with
pleasing hope, that a gracious revival of religion will soon bless this
people. I. B. BoBBiTT.

May 26, 1856.

"The Haven," Matthews Co., Va.

Rev. W. M. Reed writes to the E. G. Advocate, June 5: "Brother
John Forest built a good church at the Haven for us. It is finished
in good st)4e, and was dedicated on Sunday, the 4th of May. Brother
Rosser was expected to preach the dedicatory sermon, as it was thr
time of our quarterly meeting, but in this we were disappointed, as he
failed to come ; so the burden fell on me. We had a large and attentive
congregation. The next Sunday was my regular appointment at that
place ; the congregation was large and serious, and as Mondaj' and
Tuesday were holidays, I concluded I would hold meeting on those two
days. On Monday our congregation was not lai'ge, but we had eight
mourners at the altar. On Tuesday we had eight converts. So I con-
tinued the meeting until Friday evening, in which time we had 35
converts. I held meeting there again on the Sunday following, and
continued it until Friday. The result was, we had 83 converts; 64
joined the church on probation, and I expect many more will.

Griffin, Ga.

Our new Methodi.st church at Griffin, Ga., was dedicated on the 18th
May. The dedication sermon was preached by Dr. A. Means, from the

78 DEDICATION OF CHURCHES.

text : " Righteousness exalteth a nation ; but sin is a reproach to any
people." I shall not undertake to give you a description of this dis-
course. Suffice it to say that it was one of the Doctor's ablest efforts.
He held an immense audience enchained for two hours by his burning
eloquence. Sometimes he was sublime beyond description.

At the conclusion of the sermon, the Board of Trustees stated to the
assembly that their indebtedness for the building was about $1800, and
made their appeal to them to relieve it of embarrassment, before it
should be dedicated to holy purposes. The congregation gave a noble
response, and within fifty minutes the sum of $1800 was laid on the
table, in cash and good subscriptions. I regard this one of the
noblest triumphs, taking the past circumstances into the account, I have
ever witnessed. The moral effects of this contribution upon the com-
munity is worth more than the contribution itself Surely God was in
this matter. Too high a eulogium can not be pronounced upon the fe-
male portion of the Methodist congregation here, for the " aid and com-
fort" they have afforded in this enterprise. By the efforts they made in
their sewing society, they have contributed to the erection of this beau-
tiful edifice over $1200, besides voluntarily contributing over $100 more
for the purchase of a beautiful carpet for the aisles, altar, and pulpit.
Any community might be proud of such energetic ladies. In fact, I
regard the completion of the building at this time, to be the result of
their untiring perseverance. Their praise should be in all the churches,
that others may be provoked to love and good works.

The building is a beautiful one, fifty feet wide, and seventy feet long,
all of brick, with a basement for Sabbath-school. It is finished in the
neatest style — in nothing gaudy. It cost about $6500, and is an orna-
ment to the city : yet it is too small for the congregation, which all re-
gret. But the best of aU is, God has indicated his acceptance of the
offering, by filling the house with his presence, and sinners are convert-
ed. Fifteen persons have been added to the church since the day of
dedication, and the meeting is still in progress. The members of the
church have also been greatly revived, and the prospect is fair for a
new era to dawn upon our quiet city, iluch has been already done,
but still there remains much to be done. May the great Head of the
Church lead us on to a glorious consummation, and to his name shall
be all the praise. C. W. Key.

Griffin, Ga., May 26, 1856.

Columbia, Texas,

Rev. W. H. Seat writes to the Texas Advocate of June 7th :
On Sabbath morning (May 25) a large congregation fi-om " the region
round about" assembled in the new church. The dedication services
were conducted by Revs. Connelly, Dashiel, and the writer. The
preacher announced as his text, John 5 : 24, and endeavored to preach,
with no large amount of liberty, it is true, but as best he could under
the circumstances. At the close of the sermon a collection and sub-
scription were to be taken up for the liquidation of the church debt. This
work was undertaken with much anxiety and misgiving — anxiety be-
cause of the importance of having our churches out of debt, and misgiv-

A XEW CHIIRCH IN CUARLKSTON. 79

ingastothe result. Thought I, Oh ! that that unequalled beggar, Bishop
Pierce, were here, to lift a collection — a heavy one — for the benefit of
this "beautiful house!" Some $1100 were raised in cash, and reliable
subscriptions, which was considered, I believe, as pretty liberal, consi-
dering the gloomy prospect as to the sugar crop.

The church is a handsome substantial brick building, of suflScient di-
mensions for the village and neighborhood. The cost is about $3100,
exclusive of the seats and pulpit, which were paid for before the build-
ing was commenced. The enterprise was undertaken and carried to its
completion by Mr. Underwood, and " mine host," Mr. Brooks, leading
merchants of the village, on their own responsibility, and, with the ex-
ception of some $900, with their own private means.

These public-spirited gentlemen deserve the thanks of the commu-
nity. It is believed that the whole amount due them outside of their
own liberal donations, will be made up during the year.

[From the S. C. Advocate.l
A N"ew Church in Charleston,

The congregation worshipping at St. James' Chapel have, aided and
encouraged by the zealous and efficient labors of Rev. W. E. Boone,
their pastor, been for some time preparing to build a new house of wor-
ship. They have so far progressed as to lay the corner-stone, which was
done on Tuesday, 24th June, with appropriate ceremonies. The new
church is built at the corner of Gumming and Spring streets, fronting
on the latter, and will be called the Spring-Street Church. The followT-
ing plan furnished to the Courier by Messrs. Barbot & Seyle, archi-
tects, will gratify many readers :

"The general dimensions of the plan adopted are as follows : length
of building, including portico, 100 feet, width, 51, elevation of eavesj-iO
feet. The front will open on Spring street.

" The plan is Corinthian in the purest style, and after the most criti-
cally approved models — the leading proportions and conditions having
been taken from the universally admired and approved model, which i.s
recognized traditionally as the temple o{ Jiqnter Stator at Rome, whose
restoration and descriptive preservation have engaged the researches
and studies of the best artists.

"The Portico, as called by us, will present eight Corinthian columns,
six in front and t^-o on return, placed in just and equal intercolumnia-
tion, and will be ascended by a Hight of stone steps forty feet in width,
relieved at either end by a pedestal in keeping with the order, and ap-
propriated to a light. The main entrance leading into the body from
tliis porch will present at either hand a small room designed for library,
office, etc., and a stairway inclosed and hidden, for communication be-
tween the basement and the gallery, exclusively for the use of the color-
ed attendants. The main body will show a double columniation of six
columns at each side, ten feet in height, and central in each case to a
bank of seats. There are three aisles, two of which are exterior to all
sittings, and the other central from the entrance to the railing. It is
believed that this arrangement offers economy in room and advanteo-es in
columniating, with convenience of access and egress to and from any seat.

80 DEDICATION 01' CHURCHES.

" The very common plan of arranging a bank of short seats exte-
rior to the side-aisles multiplies the obstructions and interruptions
caused by columniation, and requires more space for passages in pro-
portion to the number of seats. It also proves inconvenient, as to the
occasional opening or closing of windows during service. The plan
here adopted obviates all these disadvantages without difficulty. The
seatings will embrace a double bank of fourteen rows, and are calculated
very comfortably for three hundred and fifty hearers, and will hold four
hundred. The pulpit will be relieved and surmounted at the rear by a
Corinthian entablature, supported by four columns. The elevation cf
the rostrum will be four easy steps from the altar floor, which is one
step above the common floor. The pulpit itself will rest on richly carv-
ed trusses, having front and side panellings, and a corniced projection
from the desk.

" The communion railing will be elliptical, and will have heavy
moulded railings supported by carved balustrades.

" This main floor will be supported entirely by iron columns, rising
from the basement in equal and necessary distribution of support. The
basement itself will be divided into a Sunday-school room and a lecture-
room, and will communicate directly with the galleries on either side
within the building, and without disturbance to the occupants of the
main floor, as we have described above. The gallery itself is arranged
as usual on the end and both sides, and is calculated to hold four hun-
dred persons easily, or more than can be seated below. The possibility
of this is readily explained, notwithstanding the diminution in horizon-
tal area, by the fact that the scats are in ascent, and are more closely
arranged than below. The ceihng overhead will be coved, rising fronv
a cornice all r»und in keeping with the style of the order, and relieved
with piece mouldings."

At the laying of the comer-stone, the Rev. W. E. Boone read a chap-
ter from the Bible, Rev. AY. P. Mouzon, of Cumberland Church, offered
prayer, and Dr. J. Cross delivered a beautiful and appropriate address.
The ceremonies were concluded by Rev. H. A. C. "Walker, P. E. of the
district, depositing, in the receptacle prepared to receive them, the names
of the Bishops of the M. E. Chvj-ch, South, the P. E. of the district,
the pastors of the Charleston M. E. churches, the trustees, building com-
mittee, architects and builders of Spring-Street Church, the Governor of
the State of S. C, and the mayor and city council of Charleston, a copy of
each of the city papers of that date, a copy of the 6'. G. Advocate, printed
on linen, a Bible, a discipline, a hymn-book, and several pieces of gold,
silver, and copper coin.

AVe will add that the pastor and congregation of St. James' deserve
jrveat credit for the energy displayed in thus endeavoring to erect a
house of worship in a section of the city where one is greatly needed,
not solely for the interests of Methodism, but for the higher interests of
religion. The congregation is neither large nor wealthy. The other
Methodist congregations in the city are not in circumstances to give
them all the aid they need ; hence appeals have been made very exten-
sively for small sums in aid to brethren abroad. In many instances
they have been liberally responded to, and if the response were more
general, the donors would be aiding people who deserve it, and would
be laying up for themselves treasure in heaven.

knterprisk, jiiss. 81

Watson Chapel, Forkland Circuit, Ala.

The Rev. W. I. Powers -oTites to the JS/'. 0. Advocate of July 5 :

" Pine Grove has been a church for several years, and it was a re-
spectable house ; but in these days of new buildings it has become
quite ancient-looking — the community felt that they must have a house
of worship more becoming. Brother John Watson, a quiet, unassuming
man, who has reached near four-score years, proposed to build a church
at his own expense. The church is now completed. It is one of the
neatest churches that I ever saw in the country. The altar and part of
the aisles are carpeted, and a neat clock tells the time of day as in the
city.

" Last Saturday and Sunday our third quarterly meeting was held at
the new church, which we now call Watson Chapel.

"On Sabbath, June 15, E. AYadsworth, D.D., dedicated this new
church. He preached fi'om ' God is a spirit, and they that worship
him must worship him in spirit and truth. ' The Doctor expounded the
word of God to a large and attentive assembly ; all were pleased, and
many profited under this excellent Gospel sermon. In the afternoon.
Brother Ramsey preached us an earnest sermon, and in conclusion we
took up a missionary collection. We raised two hundred and ten
dollars.

" You will say, Well done, Watson Chapel ! may it ever be a mission-
ary cliurch, and may God bless him who, at a cost of more than two
thousand dollars, built it."

Jefferson, Ala.

Rev. Joseph B. Cottrell writes to the Southern C. Advocate of July 10 :
" On the first Sabbath in June, the new Methodist church at Jefferson,
on the Spring Hill circuit, Ala. Conference, was dedicated. Rev. P. P. Nee-
ly, D.D., preached the dedication sermon to a large congregation, gathered
from nearly all portions of the country. The sermon was in Brother
Ncely's usually eloquent style. At night the Sacrament of the Lord's
Supper was administered, and such was the manifest presence of a re-
vival spirit that we protracted the meeting. Brother Neely left us on
Tuesday morning, and Brothers Grace and McBryde came to our assist-
once, laboring as men under such circumstances should ever labor, from
house to house, their hearts and minds and tongues burdened with but
one subject. AVe continued the meeting two weeks. Ten professed
conversion, eight of whom have joined our church.

[From the N. 0. Advocate, July 26.]

Enterprise, IMiss.

The 22d June was a glorious day for this enterprising village. Bishop
Andrew was here, looking in good health. The people Avere delighted
to look upon a live bishop and hear such truths, in his plain, unosten-
tatious way, fall from his lips. The church was greatly refreshed. We
all felt that it was a proud day for the Church in this lately remote, in-
accessible, but now, thanks to the railroad, very accessible place. The
C

82 DEDICATION OF t'llURCUKS.

Bishop dedicated our new churcli on the Sabbath, after which we took
up a collection, and the congregation responded to our call Hberally,
thus enabling us to pay every debt hanging over us, and having some
left for further improvement. His sermon was such that some of our
old Methodists thought we were getting back to the good old primitive
days. The Church in this part of the country is improving. We have
nearly one himdred white members now, with a well-built and well-
finished church, against twenty -five and no church but a goat-house
eighteen months since. We have also a splendid Sabbath-school and
library, etc. Long, long will we all remember the Bishop's talk to the
Sabbath-school in the morning. It was highly instructive and product-
ive of the best interests of the cause.

Our bell, the gift of the citizens of Mobile, through the efforts of Mr.
T. W. O'Ferrall, weighing nearly eight hundred pounds, is creditable
to the place, and we hope that it will long sound the praise of those who
gave it to us. W. C. Turner.

[From Nin-th- Carolina Advocate, Aug. 8.]
"WlXSTON, N. C.

The new Methodist Episcopal church in Winston was dedicated to
the service of God on Simday last, by Rev. Charles F. Deems, D.D., of
the N. C. Conference. A very large congregation were in attendance,
and Dr. Deems delivered a most eloquent and appropriate sermon on the
occasion. A collection of several hundred dollars was taken up, to dis-
charge the debt contracted in the erection of the building. The edifice
is large and commodious, tastefully and comfortably arranged, and is an
honor as well as an ornament to our town.

[From the Southern C. Advocate, Aug. 21.]

KlXGSTEEE, S. C.

Kingstree, the county-seat of Williamsburg District, S. C, is situated
on the eastern side of Black Eiver, some forty or more miles from its
mouth, on an "air line." It derives its name from a large white pine
that grew upon the banks of the river. The fine poUsh of which these
pines were susceptible made them more valuable than the ordinary pine,
and they were reserved in the charter as the property of the Crown.
But the most surprising thing is that a village some one hundred
and twenty years old should have remained so long without o,
house of worship. It is true that one among the oldest Pres-
byterian churches in South-Carolina is situated within a mile of
this place. The influence exerted by it in favor of religion has been
great upon the surrounding country ; but the opinion of many is that
it has failed to do the good it might have accomplished, had it been lo-
cated in the midst of the village. Sin has its rally ing-points, its strong-
holds ; and wherever these places are found, the checks and restraints of
the Gospel should be felt ; wherever the enemy's power is concentrated,
there should the strength of Christianity be collected ; wherever the
dark banner of hell is unrolled, there should the standard of the cross be

CLINTON, N, C. 83

raised. Hence the importance of having a church in every village, that
sin may be rebuked, and that none may have an excuse for not going to
church.

Repeated efforts have been made to erect a Methodist church in this
place, but every effort has proved unsuccessful, until the present year ;
nor should we have succeeded this time but for the enlarged liberality
and untiring energy of Brothers B. Y. and J. M. Pendergrass. They,
with commendable zeal, stepped forward and became responsible for
the debt incurred in building the house : they had all the trouble and
expense of furnishing the materials and boarding the workmen. It is
but seldom, in this grasping age, that such liberality is displayed and
such sacrifices are made for the cause of God. Long may they live to
worship the Grod they have delighted to honor. In this act they have
raised a monument that will live long after they rest in the tomb.

This commodious chui'ch, 60 feet in length by 40 in breadth, was
dedicated on Friday, the 14th of July, by the Rev. Colin Murchison.
His text was Genesis 28 : 17 : " This is none other than the house of
God, and this is the gate of heaven." There were several points in
this appropriate and excellent discourse that were intensely thrilling.
He described old Jacob, who spoke the words of his text, as he slept
with the heavens for his covering and the earth for his bed, his deep
emotion when he awoke and exclaimed : " Surely God was in this place
and I knew it not." But when he spoke of Jacob's dream, the ladder
he saw with one end upon the earth and the other reaching to heaven,
and applied this to Christ, his divinity stretching far above all heavens,
his humanity stooping down to earth, weeping over and relieving fallen
humanity, the effects produced by that description will not soon be
forgotten. During that hour's service did many feel that God was present,
and for five days in succession did we worship God. I have never seen
a deeper interest taken in sacred things than was there exhibited. Bro-
ther Murchison, assisted by Brothers J. S. Irvin, Dubose, and Townsend,
labored acceptably and profitably with that people. Nor can we forget
the timely aid of my old friend. Brother J. T. Mathews of Winnsboro'
circuit. The church in Kingstree highly appreciate the beautiful Bible
and hymn-book which he has since furnished them.

On Tuesday, the last day of our meeting, we organized a society of
thirty white members and twenty-four blacks. The church in this
place desires a station and intends petitioning the ensuing Conference.
There will be no difficulty in supporting a single man ; and, rather than
miss, they would receive a man with a family. L. A. Johnson.

[From the K C. Advocate, Aug. 29.]

Clinton, N. C.

" The first Methodist church ever built in Clinton has been so nearly
completed that services»are now held in the building. The first meeting
was held in this new edifice on Saturday and Sunday, the 9th and loth
inst., by Rev. D. B. Nicholson, whose plain, straightforward, logical man-
ner of preaching was received with the highest satisfiiction by the large
audience attending. Rev. J. B. Martin is the regular pastor of tho
church," — Clinton Independent.

84 DEDICATION OF CHUKCHES.

[From the Eichmond Advocate, Sept. 18.]
Laying a Corner Stone.

Measures for some time in progress for the erection of a new Method-
ist church edifice in Sydney, a western suburb of our goodly city, have
been so far completed as to justify the commencement of the work of
erection. Accordingly, on Monday afternoon, the 25th of August, the
interesting ceremony of laying the corner-stone was performed by the
Masonic fraternity. Dove Lodge, with invited brothers, escorted by the
Knight Templars, marched in procession to the ground ; and with their
appropriate and imposing forms, laid the corner-stone of the edifice.

At the close of the ceremony, the venerable Dr. Dove, G. S. of the
G. L. of Virginia, delivered a very handsome address, introducing very
happily the name of the lady who generously gave the lot on which the
church is to stand, Mrs. Bethel, in connection with Beth-EJ, the place
at which Jacob set up after his vision of the ladder and the ascending
and descending angels. At the close of these ceremonies, the Order
surrounded the platform to hear an address from the Rev. J. E. Ed-
wards. The address was well-timed and appropriate, and was listened
to with marked attention by those who could get near enough to hear
his voice. When the collection to aid in, the erection of the house was
proposed. Dr. Dove mounted the rostrum, and made an appeal to his
Masonic brethren to show their faith by their works, by contributing to
build the house whose foundation-stone they had just laid, and pro-
nounced to be "true, trusty, and well-tried." They were not slow in
responding, and nearly two hundred dollars were raised in a few mo-
ments.

There was a large assembly present to assist at the inauguration of a
Methodist house of worship in Sydney. The site is a fine one, in a grow-
ing suburb of the city ; and, we doubt not, the auspicious circumstances
under which the foundation was laid will be found in its future history
to foreshadow a long career of success and usefulness.

We annex a list of the articles deposited in the corner-stone :

This corner-stone was presented by John W. Davies, and the copper
box inclosed therein by Wm. Sears AVood.

CONTENTS OF THE BOX.

A copy of the Holy Bible.

A copy of the Doctrines and DiscipUne of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, South.

A copy of the Hymns for Public, Social, and Domestic Worship.

A copy of the Richmond Christian Advocate, and Quarterly Beview
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, for July, 1856.

A copy of the Minutes of the Annual Conferences of the M. E. Church,
South, for the year 1853-6.

A copy of the statement showing that this lot was given to the Syd-
ney M. E. Church by Mrs. Catherine Bethel ; names of trustees, preach-
ers in charge, and Bishops of the M. E. Church, South.

A copy of the Masonic text-book.

A copy of the proceedings of annual meeting Grand Encampment,
Grand Royal Arch Chapter, and Grand Lodge of Virginia.

doub's chapel, N. C, 8,5

A copy of the By-laws Eichmond Encampment, No. 2, Lafayette
Chapter, Dove Lodge, Eichmond Lodge, Eichmond Eandolph Lodge,
St. John's Lodge, and Loge Francais.

A copy each of the Eichmond Daily WJiig, Enquirer, Dispatch, and
of Semi- WeeUy American.

A copy of Walker's English Dictionary.

A copy of almanacs for the years 1856 and 1857.

Five silver coins and one copper coin of the United States.

\From the Richmond Advocate, Oct. 16.]
Portsmouth, Va.

We had the pleasure of assisting at the dedication of a new house
of worship on Sunday, the 4th inst., in Portsmouth, Va. The house
is situated in the south-western section of the town, is a neat brick edi-
fice, designed to meet the spiritual wants of a rapidly growing portion
of the community. The dedicatory sermon was preached by the Eev.
W. H. Wheelwright, P. E., of Eandolph, Macon District. The services
were to be continued each evening during the week. When we left on
Wednesday, there were encouraging indications of a revival. Expect-
ing some one connected with the church, and better qualified than we
are, to furnish an account of the church, and of the services on the
occasion of its dedication, we forbear a description of either.

We may say, however, that the visit to Portsmouth was a very agree-
able one. Twenty-two years ago, in the days when we were young, we
went in and out among the people, preaching the gospel of peace as pas-
tor of the flock of Christ. Many of those to whom we then ministered
in holy things, have passed away to the heavenly rest. The children
are in the place of the fathers. Yet all are not gone. Here and there
we saw an old familiar face, "faint yet pursuing," brave of heart, strong
of faith, joyful through hope. It was joyous to see their feet still toil-
mg along the upward path of life. .Instead of the fathers are the child-
ren, singing, as they journey along the celestial road,

" We are travelling hoiue to God,
In the way our lathers trod ;
They are happy now, and we
Soon their happiness shall see."

_ An address to the Sabbath-school, and three sermons were crowded
into a three days' visit ; and yet we managed to fill up the interval with
social joys rarely falling to the lot of an editor. It was a new phase of
life, a bright page in a life-volume crowded with wasting toil and anxious
cares. The brethren in Portsmouth owe us twenty new subscribers for
working us so hard, and making us so comfortable !

[From tJce North- Carolina Advocate, Oct. 17.]

Doub's Chapel, N. C.

On the second Sabbath in this month a new and handsome brick
chapel was dedicated to the worship of Almighty God in the Doub

86 DEDICATION OF CHURCHES.

neighborhood. It is called Doub's Chapel in honor of Rev. John Doub,
father of Rev. Peter Doub of the N. C. Conference. The dedicatory
sermon was preached by Rev. Peter Doub, from 126th Psalm, 3d verse :
"The Lord hath done great things for us ; whereof we are glad." He
first gave a succinct history of the introduction and establishment of
Methodism in the neighborhood, which took place about the year 1781
or 1782. And then exhibited in a masterly manner what great things the
Lord has done for us in the disciplinary arrangements, the doctrines,
the experience, and the results of Methodism. It was a happy effort.
Our fourth quarterly meeting was held in connection with these serv-
ices, and our worthy P. E., W. Barringer, preached several times, much
to the satisfaction of the congregation.

[From the K C. Advocate, Nov, 21.]

PiKEVILLE, IST. C.

Dear Brother Heflin : On Sunday, the 2d inst., our little church at
this place — a small village on the Wilmington and Weldon Railroad,
about eight miles above Goldsboro' — was dedicated to the service of Al-
mighty God, by the Rev. William Closs, who preached a powerful ser-
mon on the occasion. He preached on the same night and on Monday.
Our pastor, Dr. Deems, preached on Wednesday, which was his farewell
and first sermon in our new church. * * * * The meeting com-
mencing with the dedication sermon, has been kept up every night until
last night, when it came to a close. Brothers Lane, Jordan, and Howell
have aided me in the work. There were some few conversions ; one
only added to the church ; others who appeared anxious for salvation.
The congregations generally were serious and attentive. Our church is
30 feet by 40, a substantial wood building, but would not hold the con-
gregation on the day it was dedicated. We cordially invite our minis-
tering brethren to visit us and labor for our infant church.

Very affectionately yours, A. J. Fixlayson.

[From, the Texas Christian Advocate, Nov, 22.]

HuNTsviLLE, Texas.

Mr. Editor : HuntsviUe is a place, and no mistake. Though the site
on which it stands is not the most eligible or beautiful, yet there is
much that conspires to make it interesting. Proof, this, that the im-
portance or interest of a place is not dependent upon external advantages
alone.

Although HuntsviUe claims not to be the rival of ancient seven-hilled
Rome, yet, in this respect, there is a similarity. And in another and
more dignified respect, this miniature city resembles a near neighbor of
the eternal city. While Rome could boast of being the seat of empire
for the then known world, her little neighbor in the small republic of
Greece could point triumphantly to her Literati — her sages that gave
her an undying reputation among the nations of the earth. Thousands
of aspiring youth of that age, annually flocked to classic Athens to hear

HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS. 87

a Socrates or a Plato discourse upon philosophy. Athens thus became
the centre of light and learning. Although Iluntsville makes no pre-
tensions to be the equal of Athens, yet she may be dignified with the
appellation of the "Athens of Texas."

The first object that meets the eye of the beholder as he nears the
place, is the cupola of "Austin College," on " College Hill," just in the
suburbs on the south of the town. Already her alumni, though she has
not yet attained her " teens" have been sent forth to mingle in the busy
scenes of active life, and the forum and the pulpit are made to resound
with their oratory. But in bold and delightful contrast with the mag-
nificent edifice of Austin College uj)on the south, there stands upon
"Gin Hill," on the north, the less massive but capacious structure of
"Andrew Female College." Thus Huntsville affords educational facili-
ties for her own sons and daughters. But Huntsville's literary advan-
tages are not the only evidences of the enterprise and liberality of her
citizens.

Go where you will, the spirit of energy is perceptible. Huntsville
may be said to be the town of churches ; already three attest the church-
going character of the people, and another is in prospect. First, the
Cumberland Presbyterian Church, built several years since, where all
denominations mostly worshipped. Then the Baptist, which by the
kindness of its members, was tendered to, and used by, the Methodists
for three years. Several years since the Methodists determined to build
a house for themselves, and at the same time commenced the erection
of Andrew Female College ; and with the bm-then of both at the same
time, the work progressed rather slowly on the church ; but, by the
perseverance of a few friends, it was carried on till it was thought it
could be gotten ready for dedication by the fourth Sabbath in October
last. Accordingly, the appointment was made, and the services of the
eloquent Seat, and of that veteran of Texas pioneers in Methodism, Rev.
R. Alexander, were secured for the occasion. The anxiously anticipated
day arrived — the morning was dark — the heavens were lowering — the
Methodist pulse, which had beaten high in anticipation of the occasion,
began to di'oop — the shower falls — the spirits flag. But the hour for
preaching has come — the bell rings ; here they come — the pedestrians,
the horsemen, and the carriages. Soon the church lot is filled with ve-
hicles, and the house with as intelligent an audience as any place need
to boast. Rev. W. H. Seat enters the temporary pulpit, sings and
prays, opens the elegant Bible just presented by the ladies to the
church — announces for his text that sublime sentence, "Worship God."
We had always contemplated the character of Deity as greatly exalted ;
but the Bible presentation of the great I Am, by the masterly descrip-
tion of the orator at that time, gave us new conceptions of the great
Jehovah. A synoptical sketch of the sermon would be an injustice to
the speaker. The sermon over, that prince of Texas beggars for bene-
volent purposes, Brother Alexander, rose in the stand ; a heavy task
was before him, A fifteen hundred dollar debt hanging over the church,
and one thousand dollars more necessary to finish it. What a hercu-
lean task ! Can it be begged out of this people, already begged to
death? was the thought of some; but nil desperandum is his motto.
" Tell me of a church so begged," said another, of whom Brother Alex-
ander spoke, " and I'll make a pilgrimage, and inscribe upon its dilapi-

88 DEDICATION OF CHURCHES.

dated walls, ' Blessed are the dead that die in the Lord.' " " You have
given liberally," said the speaker, "but you have not felt it; give till
you feel it, that is the doctrine." Subscription papers are sent round.
Will they subscribe ? Soon they return. Any thing obtained ? Let us
see : here is one man down for two hundred ; a few for one hundred and
fifty ; more for one hundred ; and then down to fifty ; till you get
down to ten dollars. Calculate the amount, and what is the result ?
Here it is : Twenty-eight hundred and sixty dollars ! Well done for old
Walker ! One hundred and forty more will complete the church and
buy the bell ! Will it be gotten ? It will ! S. M. Jenkins.

IFrom the N. 0. Advocate, Dec. 22.]

MoxTEVALLO, Ala,

At last the Methodist people in Montevallo have a comfortable house
of worship. For the greater part of two years we held our services in
the basement of the Masonic Hall ; thence we moved to the chapel of
the Institute, and last Sabbath we found a " local habitation" in our own
new house of worship. The dedicatory sermon was preached by Rev.
S. W. Dorman, D.D., from Matt. 28 : 18, 19, 20; theme, the Kingdom
of Christ. Brother Dorman preached a^ai^Q at night fi-om Luke 14 : 16,
17; theme, the Gospel Supper ; and after the sermon administered the
sacrament of the Lord's Supper. A goodly number of communicants
met around the altar. It was truly a time of rejoicing to the people of
God — a gospel feast, and our new church was further consecrated to
God, by the triumphant shout of happy Christians. Brother D. has
driven down a strong peg for religion, in Methodist form, in this
place. T. C. Wieb.

Montevallo, Ala. Conf., Dec. 2, 1856.

MISSIONS. 89

CHAPTER IV.

MISSIONS.

EXTKACTS FROM THE ELEVENTH AnNUAL RePORT OF THE

Parent Society.

N
OFFICERS AND MANAGERS,

Elected at the Anniversary Meeting^ Nashville, Tenn., April 21, 1856.

President.
Bishop JOSHUA SOULE, D.D.

Vice-Presidents.

Bishop J. 0. Andrew, D.D., Rev. A. L. P. Green, D.D.,

Bishop Robert Paine, D.D., Rev. J. Hamilton, D.D.,

Bishop George F. Pierce, D.D., Rev. E. Stevenson, D.D.,

Bishop John Early, D.D., Rev. T. 0. Summers, D.D.,

Bishop H. H. Kavanaugh, D.D., Rev. A. R. Erwin.

Secretary, elected hy the General Conference.
Rev. E. ^Y. Sehon, D.D.

Treasurer, elected ly the General Conference.
W. R. Elliston.

Assistant Treasurers.

Rev. E. H. Myers, Charleston, S. C.
Rev. H. N. McTyeire, New-Orleans.
Rev. D. R. McAnally, St. Louis.

Managers.

Rev. L. D. HcsTON, J. P. Ford M.D.,

Rev. F. A. Owen, Isaac Paul,

Rev. J. B. McFerrin, D.D., W B. Ewing,

Nicholas Hobson, A. "VV. Johnson,

A. P. McFerrin, P. ^Y. Maxey,

W. B. Cooper, James Johnson,

H. P. BosTiCK, Rev. John Morrow,

R. Martin, M.D., Isaac Litton.

90 MISSIONS.

The Annual Meeting of the Parent Missionary Society is held in
Nashville, on the 3d Monday in April of each year, according to the
Constitution. The Anniversary celebration is, however, movable.
This year it was held in St. Louis. The foUo-ndng editorial from the
St. Louis Christian Advocate, of May 15, describes

The Missionary Anxiversart.

In last week's paper, which was put to press before the exercises of
the anniversary were closed, we could not, of course, give any thing like
a detailed account of an occasion which was to many of thrilling inter-
est. Allusion was made to the exercises on Sabbath — these were inter-
esting. Bishop Pierce preached in the First Church in the forenoon,
and in the Centenary Church in the evening. Dr. Lee, of Virginia,
preached in the same churches, reversing the order of time. Dr. Sehon
preached in Asbury Chapel in the forenoon, and in Sixteenth-Street
Church in the evening. Rev. Mr. Erwin preached in the Mound Church
in the forenoon, but we regret that both he and the people were disap-
pointed by his failure to reach Wesley Chapel in the evening.

On Monday afternoon, the missionary prayer-meeting was held in
Centenary Church ; but in consequence of the unseasonableness and dis-
agreeableness of the cold, the muddiness of the streets, and pouring
down of the rain, the attendance was small, though much larger than
we expected to see under the circumstances. — The exercises were con-
ducted by Dr. Sehon, and were solemn and impressive.

Monday evening, the first anniversary meeting was held ; the weather
still cold, wet, and the rain still coming. The congregation was small
— quite so, for the occasion — ^but as large as could have been expected
in such unfavorable weather. Dr. Parsons was called to the chair, who
opened the exercises by reading a portion of the Holy Scriptures, sing-
ing and prayer ; after which he introduced Dr. Lee, who for thirty or
forty minutes entertained the audience with a sensible, appropriate, and
pertinent speech, which was listened to with marked attention and ap-
parently deep interest. The only regret seemed to be that he quit so
soon.

Bishop Pierce was next introduced, of whom, and of whose effort, we
need not speak particularly. In his usual plain, straightforward, yet
strong and forcible manner, he urged the claims of the missionary cause,
with a power that told upon the hearts and pockets of the people.

Dr. Sehon followed him, and though we have listened to him often,
at different places, and under different circumstances, we think we never
heard him do better. His address, as were the others, was short. All
were to the point — serious and impressive — nothing light — no attempts
at wit — nothing vapid or frothy. At the close of Dr. Sehon's remarks,
the call for aid was met with a readiness, promptness, and liberality of
the most gratifying character. We never saw any thing of the kind
done more readily, more quietly and orderly, or with greater apparent
cheerfulness. No dragging, no "pulling and hauling," no covert appeals
to pride or vanity. The speakers seem to have taken it for granted the
people would do their duty, and they did it. The collection was large.

On Tuesday evening, the meeting was held in the Fu-st Church ; the
weather having become somewhat more favorable, the congregation was

EXTRACTS FROM THE EI.EVEN'J'H ANXUAL REPORT. 91

quite large ; but soon after the exercises had been commenced, the
lightnings again flashed, the thunder spoke out in unmistakable tones,
the rain began to patter, and the people to scatter, so much so that at
one time it was feared the meeting would prove a failure. However, it
did not.

Dr. Sehon was called to the chair, and after opening the exercises, in-
troduced Rev. Mr. Erwin, who, notwithstanding the interruption caused
by the uneasiness awakened by the rain, succeeded in entertaining the
congregation in an address of some forty minutes long. He spoke in
his usual easy and flowing style.

Bishop Pierce was then announced, who, though laboring under
severe hoarseness, fully satisfied those who heard him that his heart
was in the work as much, or more than ever. His hoarseness caused
him to speak under great disadvantage, though he fully sustained hirn-
self and the cause he advocated. The contributions which followed his
address were large.

The total amount contributed in the city during the occasion, is con-
siderably over three thousand dollars ; which was pretty weU for us
"border people."

We beg leave to close this hasty sketch, with the following :

" The Methodists of St. Louis to their Irethren, the Methodists of Nash-
ville^ greeting :

" Beloved Brethren : Ye are more numerous than we ; your mem-
bership among the whites is nearly or quite three hundred more than
ours. Last year you inducted, inaugurated, and installed the Missionary
Society, the object of our mutual care and affections, in your midst. At
the installation there were present nearly or quite all of the beloved
Bishops of the Church. There was the Missionary Secretary, the Board
of Managers ; there were present at least six of the ten editors of the
Church. There were present divers other worthy, eificient, and beloved
brethren of the ministry. With you is the centre of our church oper-
rations, and with these aids and advantages, you crowned the Mission-
ary Society during the year of its inauguration among you, with con-
tributions, as per report, to the amount of two thousand two hundred
and nineUj-fice dollars and six cents. Which was liberal, and for which
we praise you.

" This year you did us the honor to favor us with the anniversary
meeting, and though we had but few of the able men who were among
and assisted you, which we regret, as it would have rejoiced us to have
seen, welcomed, and heard them all ; and though our meeting unfortu-
nately happened in the midst of the most unfavorable and worst spell
of weather we have known in any May for five years past, and though
meetings were not held in all our churches, nor did all our members
have the opportunity of contributing, yet we have placed upon the head
of our beloved Missionary Society a crown worth fully one thousand dol-
lars more than that with which you crowned her in 1855. It is thus by
deeds, rather than words, we show our loj'alty to the Church.

" Please accept our best wishes for your prosperity and welfare, for
time and eternity, and beUeve us to be Methodists good and true.
" Yours, affectionately,

" The Methodists of St. Louis,"

92 MISSION'S.

I. Missioxs ^ THE Destitute Pobtioxs of toe
Regcxab Work.

These missions are attracting more and more the attention of the
Church and the friends of missions.

It is emphatically the " home work ;*' the field where that most nu-
merous dass of Christians who so much feel for the objecis and subjects
of benevolence near at hand, mav, to its fullest extent, at hoau, exercise
this noble, God-Uke charity.

To the thousands of our own population who are making their homes
in our new territories, and the large foreign population constantly land-
ing on our shores, we must give the Gospel, and for them make the most
ample provision. These must be cared for. The demand, as full as it
is made, must be met. Virtue and intelligence are the main pillars and
firmest supports of our free institutions ; without these upon the part
of oar people, our happy republic can not stand. To secure tiiese objects,
moral and religious instruction must be given ; school-houses ^id
churches must be built ; the word of God must be circulated ; the liv-
ing preach^ must be sent. What a wide field then for the exercise of
a true heaven-bom charity do our domestic missions afford, both in
town, city, and coimtry ! Our missions in cities are very important,
most important indeed. The large cities are as great fountains and re-
servoirs to the nation. Prom them go forth streams to purily and bless,
or to curse and destroy.

Thousands of the youth of our country will by proper missionary efforts
be saved, and rescued from the power of dn and eternal death. Again
we repeat, build the church and sustain the Sabbatfa-schooL, and our
police reports and oar prisons will soon declare even <m earth the result ;
wfafle the untold and increasing amoimt of good wiD be alone found in
heaven.

L Westsxs Vibgixlil Coxfebesce.

Eztracti from tit Eeport of the Secretary of the Conferenee SoeietM.

The Spring Cre^ mission, it was thought at our last meeting, would
be able to take care of itself; and consequently no appropriation was
made for that work. They now number SflO white members. The
Baleigfa misaon numbers 183 members ; the work is in a hopeful con-
dition, and win no doubt be able, in a few years, to sustain the mission-
ary. The amount collected on this work during the year was $16.55.

The Tugg Fork Mission now numbers 200, and there was collected
ttie amount cf $56. The Mason mission was first coifimenced last year,
and they now number 66 members^ 1 local preacher, and 1 church.
The amount collected, $56. The Falls of Guayan mission niunbers 216
whites, 2 colored, 3 local preachers^ 1 church, and the amount collected
$51.15. In conclusion, your Secretary records with more than ordinary
pleasure the glorious example of the colored congregation of Greenups-
borg circuit, in charge of Brother J. F. Medley. It may be said, with
g;reat propriety, that they have contributed more than aJI the rest ; for
while others out of their abundance have given to the Lord, they have
cast in all their living. They gave the sum of $13.50 to push forward

EXTRACTS FROM THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT,

this glorious work. Should not this example stir up every member of
this Society to a more prompt and persevering effort in the missionary
enterprise ? Upon the whole work there has been collected the sum of
$176.70, for the several missionaries engaged in the work. Add to this
the sum of $700, which has been collected upon the various circuits and
stations, and you have the aggregate amount of $876.70. Add anni-
versary collection, $334.94. Total, $1211.64.
All of which is respectfully submitted.

R. A. Clauguton, Secretary.

3fissions and Missionaries. W. Mi

Raleigh, 183

Tugg Fork, 200

Mason, 66

Falls of Guayandotte, 216

Spring Creek, 200

G.3f.

Cha.

,Sr. Sohs. Sch're.

Whole number, ." 865 2 2

II. Kentucky Conference.
The following is the report, principally of the last year.

Missions and Missionaries. W. 3f.

Highland, (to be supplied,). . . 300

Eagle Creek, 81

Vernon, (to be supplied,) .... 76
Letcher, (to be supplied,). . . . 180

Chaplin, (to be supplied,)

London, T. J. Godby,

Mount Pleasant, (to be sup.,).
Yellow Creek, (to be sup.,) . .

" " T. Gragg,.. ..

CM.

S. Sohs.

Williamsburg, J,

SaVra.
76

Whole number, 637

101

III. Louisville Conference.

The following are the statistics of the last year ; some changes were
made at the last Conference, which will, of course, appear in the next
report :

Missions and Missionaries. W. M. C. M.

Louisville, 405

Portland, 60

Rough Creek, 57

Caldwell,

Christian, South,

Christian, North,

Rochester,

Liberty, 286

Morgantown, 201

Chs.

S. Scha.

ScIiVa

450

>» Whole number, 1009

510

94 MISSIONS.

IV. MissouKi Conference.

•g

rfS

?»

Missions and Missionaries. ^ !^

YeUow Creek, H. H. Hedgepeth, 156 6 1

Lancaster, Geo. H. Newton, .... 285 . . 1

Gallatin, D. H. Root, 258 6 2

Trenton, W. Ketron and S. C. ) 373 3 3 4 4 3^ jgg ^,41

Littlepage, \

Milan, T. D. Clanton, 384 6 2 1 110 70 200

Hartford, Jas. B. Potter, 270 4 6

Linneus, W. M. Sutton, 288 1 2 2 2 13 80 365

St, Joseph, J. Tillery, 210 10 1 1 1 10 30 300

Oregon, W. Shaw, 220 14 2

Maryville, A. Spencer, 208 1 3 1 1 4 25 150

Athens, J. Naylor and J. Rice, . . 418 3 5

Maysville, W. Warren, 150 , . 1 30

Alexandria, Wm. Penn, Sr., 286 5 2

Whole number, 3506 59 31 9 9 68 373 1686

From the above, it will be seen that we have now in this Conference
13 missions, 13 missionaries, 3561 members, 29 local preachers, 9 Sab-
bath-schools, 9 superintendents, 68 teachers, 373 scholars, 1686 volumes
in library, and $108.30 collected for Sunday-school purposes; which
shows an increase in our Domestic Missions of 1147 members, 29 local
preachers, 5 Sabbath-schools, 5 superintendents, 68 teachers, 173 scho-
lars, and $83.30 over the report of last year.

Thus it appears that we have done something for the cause of missions
in our own bounds, and that the success that has attended the labors of
our missionaries in the sparsely -settled portions of our country, should
caU forth our warmest gratitude to God, who is the giver of all good,
and our determination to support our brethren in their missionary
toil.

Your Board can but regret that the vast importance of sustaining and
urging forward the missionary operations of the Church is not so gene-
rally recognized and felt by the membership of our Church as it should
be. How else can we account for the fact that, from a membership of
14,433, only the small sum of $2351.59 should have been collected for
missions last year? Many of these members are rich — worth thou-
sands ! and none of them are so poor as not to be able to contribute
something !

V. St. Louis Conference.

Missions and Missionanes. W. M. C. M. S. ScJts. Sahara.

Wesley chapel, H. S. Watts, J. Whittaker, 40 . . 1 120

Christie chapel, J. W. Hawkins, 32 . . 2 146

North St. Louis and Bremen, J. N. W. \

Springer, f

EXTRACTS FROM THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT.

Missions and Missionaries.

Buffalo, D. S. Proffit,

Osage, M. G. McMillan,

Warrensburg, William R. Babcock, ...

Forsyth, W. 0. McMillan,

Centreville, Wm. GriflBn,

Eminence, Oak Ridge, J. M. Wheeler, .
Salem, John Monroe,

W.M.

41 r

120
250
150
228
150
271

C.3f. >Sf. 5c/w.
2
1
3 1

Whole number, 1658 6

VI. Kansas Mission Conference.

Missions and srissionaries. W.M. CM.

Wyandotte, ^^illiam Barnett, 8

Delaware, N. M. Talbot, 6

Shawnee, 0. Bowles, 3

Kickapoo, N. T. Shaler, 75

Tecumseh, L. B. Stateler, J. H. Pritchett,

Fort Scott, John Hale, 41

Neosho, Claiborn Jones,

Council Grove, (to be supplied,)

Leavenworth, J. 0. Woods, 75

Big Blue, Adonijah Williams,

Doniphan, (to be supplied,) 369

Potawottomie, Cyrus R. Rice,

Whole number, 577 1

VII. Ouachita Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. W. M.
Upper Saline, B. Williams,

Perry ville, L. H. Johnson,. 163

Dallas, E. Gaddis, 140

Louisville, Wm. J. Scott, . . 60

Napoleon, James Rice, .... 64

Hampton, Wm. Winbourn, 381

Whole number, .

808

CM.
6

17
13
36

Ch8.

VIII. Arkansas Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. W. M.

Gainsville, 407

Greenbrier, 290

Searcy, 242

Clinton, 229

Salem, 275

Lebanon, 163

Grand Prairie, 152

Huntsville, 217

Jasper, 98

White River,

CM.
4
2

Cha.

Whole number,

2078

8. Sohs.

Sch'rs.
60

60
386

ScVrs.
95

105

200

S. Softs. Sch-rs.

& So7i.s. ScKra.

MISSIONS.

IX. HoLSTON Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. W. M. C. M. Chs.

Flat Top, 578 25 3

Watauga,

Gap River, 553 29

Sandy River, 242 4

Russell,

Telico, 323 6

Walden's Ridge,

Spencer, 241 . . 3

Cumberland, 230 10 9

■Jamestown, 364 10

Montgomery, 236 9 9

Huntsville, 120 20

Cheowa,

Watauga, 177

Whole number, 3064 113 23

8. Soha. Sch'r$
4 100

•o
8

164
300

300

864

X. Tennessee Conference.

Linden mission, situated on the waters of the Tennessee river, and
embracing a section of country where the people are not well supplied
with the means of grace. This work has been, during the year, occu-
pied by the Rev. J. H. Campbell. He reports : white members, 160 ;
probationers, 22 ; colored members, 11. He received on the mission, in
aid of his support, $38. Your Committee recommend its continuance.

Ridge mission is situated on the waters of the Cumberland river, and
embraces portions of the counties of Davidson and Robertson. There
are in this mission 11 preaching places, 251 white members, 15 colored
members, 1 local preacher, and 1 deacon. The missionary reports 32
conversions during the year, and 8 baptisms. It was travelled by the
Rev. J. K. Woodson, who received towards his support $73.40, by the
contributions of the people. The missionary thinks the prospect for
doing good in this field is promising. We regret to learn that there are'
no Sunday-schools in the bounds of the work. This evil, we think,
should be remedied. The children must be taught if we expect the
Church to prosper. Surely, with a membership of 251 a few Sabbath-
schools might be sustained. We recommend the continuance of this
mission.

The White Plains mission is mainly situated in Putnam county,
Tenn. Number of appointments, 12 ; white members, 275 ; colored
members, 25 ; Sunday-schools, 1 ; superintendents, 1 ; teachers, 6 ;
scholars, 65 ; volumes in library, 150 ; money collected for Sunday-
schools, $12 ; amount of missionary money, $58. There has been a
small increase during the year ; condition of the mission pretty good ;
labored under serious disadvantages this year. We recommend its con-
tinuance.

Frankfort mission, Tuscumbia District, has appointments, 10; mem-
bers, 174; probationers, 36; local preachers, 3; contributed for th-i
support of the preachers, $43.26 ; about 50 conversions ; left many

EXTltACTS FROxM THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL EEPORT.

penitents at the altar ; mission improving ; supplied by Watson E.
Mitchell. We recommend its continuance.

Missions and Missionaries. W. M. O. M.

Linden, J. H. Campbell,... 182 11

Eidge, J. K. Woodson,.... 251 15

White Plains, 275 25

Frankford, W. E. Mitchell, 210

Whole number, 918 41

Ohs. 8. Schs. ScKra.

• • • • • •

"i 65

1 65

XL Virginia Conference.

No report forwarded us. We publish from last year's report.

Missions and, Missionaries. W. M. G. M. Ohs. S. Schs. ScJi'rs.

Oregon, 172

Wesley chapel, 31

Staflford, 110

Blue Ridge, 203

Bufifalo, 272

Factories, : . 207

Currituck, 230

Rocketts,

Whole number, .... 1225

XIL Mississippi Conference.

Missions OMd Missionaries. W. M. O. M.

Decatur, , 218 8

LeafRiver, 307 55

Lake Washington,

Greensborough, 386 16

Mt. WiUies,

Black Creek, 88

Ohs.

Whole number, ,

999

XIII. Georgia Conference.

Missions and Missionaries.

Chatham, R. J. Harwell, 110

Murphy, J. Chambers, 631

Factory, J. W. Robinson, 216

ViUa Reia, C. Trussell, 540

Dade, H. McHan, 428

Augusta City mission, J. O. A. Clarke, 200

Elijah, T. B. Harbur, 99

Dallas, A. Dorman, 367

Emmanuel, F. W. Flanders, 142

Clayton, ^Y. H. Thomas, 255

Blairsville, 500

S. Schs. Schr's.

W.M. CMS. Schs. Sch-'rs.

, ,

320

200

250

• •

381

• •

120

, ,

• ■

, ,

101

Whole number, ,

.3318 106 17

1387

MISSIONS.

XIV. — Alabama Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. W. M. C. M. Chs.

Black Creek, J. Bond, 191 10

Sipsey, G. W. GiUespie, 134 39

Hancock, E. Sullivan, 209

Pikeville, J. McGaw, 343

Warrior, J. B. Warren, 270

Sand Mountain, W. Rhodes, E. ) g^o

Nicholson, \

Coosa, S. E. Swope, 120

Maplesville, J. T. Roper, 146

2
12

2
17

Whole number, 1925

XV. Louisiana Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. W.M. CM. Ohs.

Haw Creek, 104 60

Dugdemona, 112

S.Schs.
1

Soh'rs.
60

io
1

100

110

135

S. Schs.

405

Sch'rs.

Whole number, 216

XVI. North-Carolina Conference.

This Conference, by her contributions and zeal in behalf of the great
missionary enterprise, is among the first of her sister conferences. May
the blessing of Heaven continue to rest upon her ministry and member-
ship.

Missions and Missionaries. W. M.

Raleigh City, H. Gray, 42

Tar River, 393

Blue Ridge, 220

Cape Hatteras, 654

Cape Lookout, 223

CM.

Chs.

S. ScTis.

ScKrs.

, ,

162

107

, ^

100

Whole number, 1532

120

435

XVIL Florida Conference.

This Conference is steadily improving in her contributions for the
support of missions. There is a growing interest also manifested in
favor of their own mission field. They report twelve missions to the
whites and seven to the colored people.

Missions ami Missionaries.

Isabella, A. Davis,

Milford, T. C. Coleman,

CHnch, G. M. McDonald,

Orklorknee, G. F. Boon,

South-Madison, J. M. N. Lowe, . .
Suwanee, T. R. Barnett,

W.M.

CM.

&Schs.

148

106

• •

115

206

;;

131

, ,

• •

Sch'rs,

EXTRACTS FROM THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT.

MiSBions and MisHonaries. W. M.

Santa Fc, A. W. Harris, 42

Orange, F. M. Wilson, 61

Sumpter, W. Edwards, 195

Hernando, M. V. Mills, 114

Hillsboro', A. Johnson, 155

Nassau, R. McK. Tydings, 18

Whole number, 1252

CM.

Cha.

iS.Sc}

• •

, ,

SchVa.

269

XVIII. Memphis Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. W. M. CM. Chi.

Morgan's Creek, James Gaines, 055

James Spencer,

Camden, 887 9

Little Hatchee, 399 11

Whole number, 154-1 20

XIX. South-Carolina Conference.

S. Sch».

8cfi?r8.

Sahara.

Missions and Mtaaumariea. W. M. CM. Cha. S. Soha.

Granetville, 118 65

Mount Lyon, 492 52

South Mountain, 152

Whole number, 762 117

XX. East-Texas Conference.

This second Conference in the young and rising State of Texas, is
rapidly advancing in character and position. Increasing attention is
being paid to all the benevolent agencies and instrumentalities of the
Church for the advancement of the cause of Christ.

Missions and Missionariea. W.M. CM.

Wood County, 67 17

Sulphur Fork, 160 4

Cypress, 234 5

Athens, 213 27

Knoxville, 83

Millwood, 102

Vanzant, 180 7

Marion, 56

Whole number, 1095 60

07is. S. Sofia.

Sch'ra.

75
63

138

XXI. Texas Conference.

The history of our Church in Texas affords an illustration of the
success attending missionary efforts. In 1834, Rev. Henry Stephenson,
of the Mississippi Conference, then laboring on the Nachitoches circuit.

100 MISSIONS.

entered Texas and organized a small class near the Sabine river. Our
operations, however, were not efficiently prosecuted vmtil the revolution
of 1836 had given to Texas the blessings of civil and religious liberty.
In 1837, Ruter, Fowler, and Alexander, came as missionaries to the
infant republic. In 1838, Fowler was Superintendent of the Texas Mis-
sion. In 1839 he was Presiding Elder, and the mission district was
attached to the Mississippi Conference. In 1840, the Texas Conference
was organized, with about fifteen travelling preachers, seven local
preachers, 1621 white and 230 colored members. The East-Texas Con-
ference was formed in 1845. There were then in both Conferences fifty-
one travelling and sixty-four local preachers, 5177 white and 1005 col-
ored members. From 1840 to 1845 our membership was more than
trebled. The increase from 1845 to 1850 was only about fifty per cent.
In 1850 there were 74 travelling and 144 local preachers, 8662 white
and 1462 colored members. From 1850 to 1855 the increase was 12,958
white and 3266 colored members. The increase during the past year
was, in the East-Texas Conference, 3004, and in the Texas Conference,
3564, an increase unparalleled in our past history.

The Texas Conference Missionary Society was organized at the first
Texas Conference, held in Eutersville fifteen years ago. The following
were the officers of the Society elected at its organization : R. Alexan-
der, President ; John Haynie, Vice-President ; T. 0. Summers, Secre-
tary ; C. Richardson, Treasurer ; L. Fowler, F. "Wilson, J. Hord, J. P.
Sneed, and S. A. Williams, Board of Managers. Of this excellent
Board, Alexander, our present President, and Summers, our Book Editor,
are the only ones who have remained upon the effective list of travelling
preachers — noble representatives of a noble band of evangelical labor-
ers. Hord and Haynie in the AYest, and Williams and Wilson in the
East, are upon the honorable but unenviable list of superannuates.
Sneed returns this year to the ranks of the itinerancy, while Fowler
and Richardson have been transferred from the Church militant to the
Church triumphant. The body of the former rests underneath the pul-
pit of the church near Milam, in which he had often proclaimed the
unsearchable riches of Christ. A modest marble column, rising upon
a commanding eminence fronting Eutersville College, informs the passer-
by that there sleeps the dust of Richardson until the resurrection morn.
It aflfords a mournful satisfaction to recall the names and memories of
these fellow-laborers in the Gospel vineyard. It reminds us of bygone
years, when, in our missionary festivals, their voices were always heard,
and on other occasions we were accustomed to see them lead on the
sacramental hosts to battle and to victory. But they are gone •, and
with the sainted Ruter, and the spirits of other brethren beloved who
have preceded or followed them, their voices now mingle in songs of
praise before the throne. While they rest from their labors, we are
left to till the fields their hands have cleared, to rear the building whose
foundation they laid, and to extend still farther the line of our evangel-
ical labors.

Missions and Missionaries. W, 31. C. M. Chs. S. Schs. SoKra

San Antonio, J. W. Phillips,. . . . 43 7 1 1

Navidad,G. Tittle, J. W.B.Allen, 237 19 . .

Fort Worth, B. A. Kemp, 280 . . . . 1

KXTRACTS FROM THE ELEVKNTH ANNUAL REPOKT. 101

Missions and MissionarieB. W. M.

Georgetown, R. G. King, 145

Onion Creek, W. A. Smith, 49

Nueces, A. C. Fairman, 77

Corpus Christi, J. G. Johnson, . . 22

Brownsville, 9

Hamilton, J. H. Wright, .- 145

Savara, R. L. Drake, 54

Whole number, 1061

CM.
6
2
3
5

Olis. S. Scft». Sch'ra.

n. Missions among the People of Color.

The extracts from the "Report" under this head are given in the
chapter on " Our People of Color."

HE. German Missions.

It is matter of grateful reflection to the Christian heart to note the
increasing interest which these missions are exciting, and the attention
bestowed upon them by the Church.

Our duty and interest alike command us to sustain them. How vast
and continuous the immigration from Germany to this country ! In all
oiu" large seaport towns and cities, yea, in all our cities and towns, and
throughout our whole country in the West and South-west, are these
immigrants by thousands to be found. These must be sought out by
the ministers of Christ. They must be Christianized ; they must be
Americanized. The power of the pulpit and the press must, in their
influence, be everywhere exerted for the salvation of these crowding
thousands, who are seeking a home and country in this land of freedom
and Christian republicanism.

We are happy to announce the fact that the German paper, established
by the direction of the General Conference, and under the authority of
the Board, is now being published in Galveston, Texas. The name is
Ecangelical Apologist. The editor is Rev. Peter MoeUing. The paper
is admirably conducted, and everywhere commended. We most sin-
cerely hope for the fullest success and prosperity to attend its publica-
tion. The Germans are a reading people, and we should, by the weekly
press, and by our book and tract circulation, fully meet their thirst for
information. In no surer way can the evils of infidelity be met and
overcome among them.

We have eight German missions in Texas, all prospering and doing
well. Four in the city of New-Orleans ; one in each of the cities of
Mobile, LouisviUe, and Nashville, and one just established in the city of
Memphis.

Nashville German Mission.

Of this mission the report of the Tennessee Conference speaks thus :
Ths German Mission. — 'I'his is a new field, where we are making a

102 MISSIONS.

most satisfactory experiment. Rev. Philip Barth, an intelligent and
faithful German brother, has been at work nearly one year. He has
collected a respectable congregation, organized a church, and has in
rapid progress a large and commodious house of worship, which will
soon be ready for occupancy. The citizens of Nashville have manifested
a commendable zeal in aid of this glorious enterprise. They have con-
tributed Uberally towards the erection of the building ; and an enlight-
ened body of trustees have worked nobly to push forward the good
work among our Gei'man friends. We entertain high hopes of the suc-
cess of this effort to bring this class of our fellow-citizens under the
influence of the Gospel, as taught by Protestant Christians. This mis-
sion should receive the hearty support of the Conference, as it is des-
tined to accomplish much good.

Geknan Missions in New-Orleans.

Of these the report of the Louisiana Conference speaks thus :
A good Providence has raised up to the Germans ministers from
among themselves. Three German itinerants have been laboring in the
city during the last year, besides two German local preachers. The
German missions were never in a more prosperous condition, though
during the year the first mission lost 20 per cent of its membership
with yellow fever. Lots have been recently bought for a fifth mission
chapel. The unexpected gathering of more than 100 German children
in the Beer Garden Sabbath-School, in the western part of the Third
District, called loudly for us to enter that ripe field.

The first mission is suflFering for want of a larger church. A lot is
bought and paid for, and several thousand dollars collected for this pur-
pose ; yet at least $4000 additional must be obtained before the trustees
of the mission can venture to build such a brick church as has been
contemplated these several years past, and such as becomes the most im-
portant and the oldest German Mission of the Methodist Church, South.
Help ! help ! ! help ! I ! What man is there among all the friends of
German Methodism who will give this much to aid this great mission of
love?

Louisville German Mission.

The Rev. C. Quellmalz, who was appointed to this mission at the last
Conference, has been removed to Memphis, and Brother Traeger, a most
worthy and excellent young man, appointed to Louisville in his place.
The mission is doing well, we believe, under his ministrations.

Memphis German Mission.

This mission has been established since the Annual Conference, in
obedience to the action had at the last Memphis Conference on this sub-
ject. Brother Quellmalz, our most worthy missionary at Louisville, has
been placed in charge of the mission. The following was the action of
the Conference.

We have listened with the deepest interest to the very feeling and
appropriate address of our brother, Philip Barth, the German mission-
ary from the city of Nashville. When we take into consideration that

EXTRACTS FJROM THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPOKT. 103

we have so many hundreds of thousands of foreigners seeking homes
in our own happy country every year, and that the present European
war will greatly increase this number, and that these people know but
little of Protestant Christianity, and scarcely any thing of our beloved
Methodism — " Christianity in earnest" — they now have a claim upon
us equal, if not greater, than any others. In view of the fact that
there are some fifteen hundi-ed Germans in the city of Memphis, we
Iicreby recommend the appointment of a missionary to the Germans in
the city, as soon as a suitable missionary can be obtained.

The friends in Memphis have most kindly received the missionary,
and we can but believe that great prosperity, under the blessing of God,
vsall rest upon it. Let the Church see to it that this important field of
labor be properly estimated and sustained by them.

MisHoTis and Missionariea. M. CM. S. ScM. SchV-s.

1. New-Orleans, J. Pauley, 75 1 1 100

2 " " 85 1 1 40

3. " " 12 1 1 15

3. " " G. Busman 14

Mobile, P. Maass, 20 1 1 21

Galveston, P. Moelling, 80 1 1

Bellville, A. Engel,

Industry, E. Vordenhiem, 72 1

New-Braunfels, H. P. Young and G. EUy, . 72 . 1 18

Fredericksburg, C. Grote and J. C. Kopp, . 115 1 2

Victoria, A. Warns, 34 . . 1 20

Clark's Creek, E. Schneider, 23

Houston, 35

Louisville, Traeger, 38 1 1 30

Nashville, P. Barth, 21 1 1 30

Memphis, C. Quellmalz,

Whole number, 646 8 12 274

ly. Indian Missions.

We publish below the report of the Indian Mission Conference.

We also publish from last year's report the statistics, being the most
certain information we have.

To report faithfully, as required for the satisfaction of the Church, the
work of an entire Conference, however numerically small such Confer-
ence may be, is a matter involving no little responsibility ; especially so,
when we are greatly deficient in the material that should have been
furnished necessary to make up such a report.

This lack of right kind of material may be owing to some one or more
of several causes. First, much of this has to be gathered through native
interpreters, which is often found very embarrassing. Second, many
of our native men who have charge of work do it in so loose a way that
it is next to impossible, in winding up matters for Conference, to bring
all the ends together. Third, we too often depend upon others to do

104 MISSIONS.

that which we should do ourselves. And last, but not least, none of us
begin in time ; almost every thing is left for the last round ; sickness
or something else hinders us from making that last round, and the re-
sult is, we come up to Conference unprepared to do either ourselves or the
work justice. "We are made to feel this more sensibly, when we reflect
that we are here supported by the united contributions of a whole Church,
and for which she has a right to expect occasionally the fullest account
we can give of the work with which we have been intrusted. Nor does
it follow, neither should it be expected, that we shall always be able to
report progress, or our work free from embarrassment. However
cheering to every friend of the missionary enterprise this might be, it is
not always to be looked for.

The Indian Mission Conference, though peculiar in some respects, is
one among the sisterhood of Conferences composing the Methodist Epis-
copal Church, South. She is Indian, as her name imports. Indians
make up almost her entire membership. More than one half the men
employed as laborers are Indians. The funds appropriated, the labor
expended, together with the prayers of the Church, all look to the In-
dian's benefit, and forward to a time when a glorious harvest shall be
gathered of these tribes for whom so much has been done. But it may
be gravely and appropriately asked, Will the harvest of the kingdom be
in proportion to all this outlay of means ? In one sense it may not
prove so ; but in the judgment of Him to whom the earth and the full-
ness thereof belongs, it will be infinitely more so. No correct estimate,
at the present or any future time, can well be made of the numbers of
this fading race the Gospel has redeemed and blessed. The condition of
thousands has already been bettered in this life ; and how many pre-
pared for that which is to come we can not conjecture. One after an-
other of the first fruits of missionary labor has passed away from earth
to join their friends above, leaving but here and there one to narrate the
scenes of the past. It affords the older members of the Church great
pleasure to recount the triumphs of the Gospel among them — referring
to the time and circumstances when that man and the other embraced
Christianity and were happily converted to God, with the confident and
peaceful manner in which they left the world.

Perhaps there are none who speak more approvingly and with so
much pleasure of these things as do the Cherokees. The Gospel has
done much for them. Their piety, their schools — in a word, their civil
and religious institutions — all testify to the fact that " the Gospel is the
power of God unto salvation." No people living, perhaps, can produce in
the same ratio so many wlio either read the Scriptures in their own ver-
nacular, or the English tongue. Here, too, the relative claims of Christ-
ianity and barbarism, with the blessings of the one and the curses of the
other, are seen in awful contrast. Their religious profession is generally
manifested by something of that kindness and liberality which charac-
terized, the earlier ages of the Church.

In a portion of the Cherokee district there has been a good work the
past year, especially on the Tahlequah and one or more of the other mis-
sions. The membership in this district is not far from thirteen hun-
dred. We have none of the schools under our care. With a few ex-
ceptions, they are all under the immediate control of the National Coun-
cil. It may not be amiss to mention that other denominations besides

EXTRACTS FROM THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT. 105

ourselves occupy this field. The Moravians or United Brethren, have
two stations with a small membership. The Congregationalists, under
the direction of the American Board for Foreign Missions, have five sta-
tions, with a membership, as last reported, of two hundred and eighteen.
And the Baptists, under the direction of the Boston Board, have a mem-
bership of some twelve hundred. They operate more on the itinerant
plan, and mostly through native assistants, who are regularly instructed
in the doctrines and usages of the denomination, by the two white mis-
sionaries sent out by the Board. We submit, could we not, by a little
modification in the prescribed duties of presiding elders, reach this
point? The idea of native men, with a few solitary exceptions, being
examined once a year, and a given course of study, however well it may
be adapted to the wants of the Conferences in the States, has so far proved
almost a signal failure. A little more adaptation, and then a great
deal more work are the things wanting in order to greater success.
For we are sure that the spirit and blessing of God will attend the
labors of his earnest servants, however humble they may be, in all this
work and labor of love. Those who have sent us thus to labor and to
sacrifice, calculate on and pray for this.

But as we have dared to look beyond our own fields on the fields of
others, let us give honor to whom honor is due. The Baptists and Con-
gregationaUsts have done much through the press to give the Scriptures
and other useful books to the Cherokees in their own language, so that
all who will may read. Northern afiinities and interference has, and
will, doubtless, more or less embarrass the labors of these otherwise de-
voted missionaries.

It may be in place here to name that, since our last report, we have
lost in the Cherokee Nation one of our long-tried and most valued mem-
bers. Sister M. R. Murrell, wife of Major George M. Murrell, and daugh-
ter of Lewis and Frances Ross. At an early period in life, she sought
and found the pearl of great price, attached herself to the Methodist
Church, lived to enjoy its blessings and to bless others, of the ample
means she possessed so to do. Her death has been a great loss, not only
to the Church, but to the Cherokee people. Her disease was of pulmon-
ary type, and attended, at times, with unusual suffering. But her con-
fidence in her Saviour sustained her to the last. She lives to die no
more.

Among others of our warm friends who have died in that work, we
mention Col. W. S. Adair, whose house was, and still continues to be,
the missionary's more than welcome home. Brother Adair was fondly
attached to our Church.

But perhaps in no section of our mission-field has there been, in the
same length of time, so manifest a change for the better as in the Creek
Nation. Here but a few years ago,' praying was declared to be unlawful,
and a penalty of fifty lashes inflicted on the bare back of those who
persisted in such a course, without regard to sex. Schools, with all other
means of civilization offered, but were regarded as things not indispensa-
bly necessary to the nation's welfare. In the mean time drunkenness
and profligacy prevailed almost to the nation's ruin. A downward
tendency in numbers as well as morals was the apparent and fearful re-
sult. A few only dared to propose and advocate the principles of reform.
But how now ? They support two large manual-labor schools, one

100 MISSIONS.

smaller boarding-school, and about eight neighborhood schools, say at
an annual cost to the nation of over twelve thousand dollars. In this
way, besides a few that are sent to the States, about four hundred child-
ren are receiving more or less instruction annually. Their civil insti-
tutions are gradually changing, the old and hereditary principles giving
way, and those of a republican character taking their place. The bow
and arrow and the chase are now but rarely resorted to for a Uvelihood ;
the plough, the hoe, with the various other implements of agricultural life,
are fast taking their place. Still there remains much to be done ; there
are many hindrances yet in the way of the Creeks' more rapid advance
to a higher state of civilization. They are greatly in want of many
of the necessary facilities to make home what it should be — the
place of comfort, plenty, and neatness. Two great hindrances to this
are extravagance and want of economy. Polygamy still exists in high
places : if not in form, in fact. The hot-house and the square are still
to be seen. But these are rather to be regarded as town than national
affairs, as some towns have abandoned them — one in particular prefer-
ring an old-fashioned camp-meeting to the annual husk or green-corn
dance.

It is a curious fact, and may not be passed over without notice, that
many of our native members and helpers, who stood like the beaten anvil
in times of trial, thereby doing credit to themselves and the noble cause
they had espoused, have, under a change of circumstances, proved less
firm and decided in their religious profession. Our native men, under
all the circumstances, have not rendered the Church the valuable service
anticipated. With few exceptions they fail as disciplinarians; in a
word, but few are sufficiently qualified for so onerous a work. We
have, however, full before our mind's eye, both of the living and the
dead, some honorable exceptions to this.

In the next place, we may have itinerated a little too much — not
that any of us have done too much work ; but at times we may have
grasped at more than we could hold on to. At other times something has
been lost by not being able to seize upon important openings as they
presented themselves. Too often, as is frequently the case in the regular
work, where we can not lose much, places have been left to be supplied,
bringing in, as the great danger is, a transient class of laborers, who,
under the circumstances, look more to the salary than to the general in-
terests of the work ; and often, it is to be feared, our reports have rather
courted popular favor, instead of stating reasons and alluding to the
frequent hindrances we meet with, which really, if we but reflect a
moment, are occurrences which we shall have more or less to do with
while our work is with fallen humanity. Nevertheless, we fully expect
the Gospel to triumph in spite of every reverse.

We may state, in addition to what we have already said of the educa-
tional and civil interests of the Creeks, that the three denominations
now occupying the field have each a membership about as follows :
Presbyterians, saj' two hundred, with three schools, including one
among the Seminoles ; Baptists, eight hundred, including a large num-
ber of blacks — have no schools under their care ; Methodists, about eight
hundred, with but few blacks — have charge of one large manual-labor
school. The Asbury School is located in the Canadian district of this

EXTJRACTS FKOM THE . ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPOKT, 107

nation. Included in the numbers above named are many of the most
influential and leading men of the nation.

The Choctaws and Chickasaws together, are advancing rapidly in
civilization. Their facilities for general improvement are many and
various — schools, from the academy down to the latter-day and Sabbatli-
schools. They have more large boarding-schools than any of the other
tribes. Of these we have charge of five, namely : Fort Coffee Academy,
New-Hope Seminary, Colbert Institute, Bloomfield and Chickasaw Acii-
demies. We also have within these bounds a membership of over
twelve hundred ; while the Presbyterians, Baptists, Congregationalists,
and Episcopalians are all well represented, and able to report a respecta-
ble membership. These several denominations also have charge of a
goodly number of the schools, the most of which are prosperous. Here,
too, as in the Cherokee Nation, the influence and workings of Northern
fanaticism have been seen and felt.

Our work within the bounds of the Choctaw district is reported by
the presiding elder as generally prosperous.

"We would now most respectfully submit the following :

1. Whether or not the rule of Discipline requiring this report had not
better be so changed or amended as to make every missionary directly
responsible fbr a faithful and full report of his work for the year, to the
Secretary of the Parent Board ? This strikes us as the plan most likely
to elicit all the information required, as well as the one most likely to
give general satisfaction ; for then would those who have charge of the
work be more careful in collecting the necessary materials for such
report.

2. Whether or not our missionary plan might not be so changed or
modified as to enable us to secure from our own Church the services
of such as may be quaUfied to fiU the place of teachers, assistants, etc.,
in our schools ; and that they be recognized as missionaries, selected
with special reference to this, that, or the other work ?

Could we have gathered all the information required by the Disci-
pline, our report would have been different, and perhaps much more
satisfactory. But as imperfect as it is, we submit it, hoping and pray-
ing that something may be gathered from it advantageous to the cause

it aims to represent.

Thomas B. Ruble, Secretary.

I. Kansas District.

Misaioiis and Misiiotuiriea. Ind.

Fort L. M. L. Sch., T. Johnson, 3

Shawnee, 53

Kansas, 2

Delaware, 64

Wyandotte, TO

Kickapoo, 48

Whole number, 240 19 3 6 6 405 136

Col.

Ohs.

S.8.

ChUcCn.

100
150

100

35
15
25

108

MISSIONS.

II. Cherokee District.

Missions and Missionaries. Ind. W.

Delaware and Seneca, 340 2

Spring Creek, 222 8

Tahlequah and Grand Saline and

Tahlequah. circuit, 225

Cana, 340 10

Salusaw, 232 10

Col. Cks. S. S. ChacCn. p.

65
22
19

4
1

Whole number, 1359 30 117 7

3
1

60
30

125

285

III. Creek District.

Missions and MiesUmanee. Ind.

Canadian, 100

Creek Agency, 268

Big Bend, 44

N. Fork, 257

Little River, 90

A. M. L. School, T. B. Ruble, 7

W.
3

17
8
1
6
5

Col. Chs.
3
20

22
9

Whole number, 765 35 54

rV. Choctaw District.

Missions and Missionaries. Ind.

Hoshelatubbee, 207

Fort Coffee,

New-Hope, 35

Doaksville, 400

Kiamiche, 410

Chickasaw, 25

Chickasaw Academy, J. C. ) -.-.

Robinson,

Bloomfield Academy, J. H.

Carr,

Perryville, 74

Colbert Institute,

W.
4
4
6
8
2

50
4

WTiole number, 1206 68 209

Col. Chs.
6

78
22

S. S. CMlcCn.
2 21
1 20

1
4

2
1
2
5

1
1

121

S. S. Chilean.

60
50
80
95

100
100

80
80

P.
50

120
35

550 235

To the above we add Echota, in the Holston Conference, having 158
members, with one church, one Sabbath-school, and 20 scholars.

V. China Missions.

The present is a period of most intense interest in the history of this
vast empire. The past, and the present also to a great extent, may be
properly regarded as the preparation season for China. The seed has
been and now is being sown ; the great harvest is ripening. The re-

EXTRACTS FROM THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT. 109

suits will everywhere be seen in the advancement of the social, moral,
and political condition of the empire. We can but believe the present
is the dawning of a glorious day to China — the opening of the door for
light and truth to her long benighted millions.

As a Church, we have been called to bear a most honorable part in
the great Christian efforts that are being made for the recovery and sal-
vation of that distant land. Having put our hands to the work, we
must not look back. Our past efibrts and contributions must be viewed
in their proper light. They were absolutely necessary as preparatory
to the very establishment and commencement of our missionary opera-
tions. They are now necessary ; they must be continued ; and increas-
ing efforts and zeal must characterize the Church, in order to the suc-
cessful prosecution of our work. Impatience for results, and a want of
faith in the accomplishment of good equal to the means employed, fear-
fulness and distrust — these must all be met and overcome, by a firmer
reliance on the promises of God, and stronger devotion and zeal in his
cause.

Afflictive providences and apparent hindrances have occurred to
weaken somewhat faith in the full success of this mission. Yet these
are all occurring under the eye and control of the God of missions. All
may be necessary to the furtherance of the Gospel, and will be over-
ruled to the glory of God, and the advancement of his cause. Thus we
would wish fuUy to feel at the present moment. Such in this hour is
our foith.

"We had but just received the sad announcement that, through ex-
treme affliction, our devoted missionaries, Brother and Sister Belton,
were compelled to leave Shanghai. While yet the prayers of the Church
were going up to heaven in their behalf, the painful intelligence of his
death reaches us. They arrived in New- York on the 19th of February.
The voyage appeared much to improve the health of Mrs. Belton, but
not so with our afflicted brother. He continued to fail and gradually
decline until, on the 17th of March, he died — peacefully falling asleep in
Jesus.

After his arrival he received every attention from the Church in New-
York — was in every way most kindly cared for. Bishop Janes and his
estimable wife, with many others, did every thing in their power for him
and his afflicted family. This is as it should be : we are all the children
of one Father, and tending to the same heaven ; in the grave to which
we go there is no North, no South. It is a gratifying circumstance that
Dr. Stevenson, who was in New-York, was permitted to see and con-
verse with our departed brother the evening before his death. He found
him calm and peaceful. And thus he died.

We present from the New- Torh Comynercial Advertiser the following
notice of his funeral :

" Funeral of Rev. Mk. Belton. — The funeral of the Rev. J. S. Belton,
of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, was attended from the
Eighteenth-Street Methodist Episcopal church yesterday. After an ap-
propriate prayer, at the house where Mr. Belton died, the body was
borne to the church by eight clergymen, officiating as pall-bearers.
Rev. Dr. Foster, of Brooklyn, opened the services by a hymn, followed
by an impressive prayer by the Rev. Dr. Holdich, Secretary of the

110 MISSIONS.

American Bible Society. Rev. Dr. Osbon, of this city, read a lesson
from the Scriptures, and the Rev. Dr. Cross, of Charleston, South-Caro-
lina, made a beautiful and eloquent address, singularly adapted to the
occasion. The exercises were closed by reading the burial-service by
Rev. Mr. Steele.

"It appeared, from the address, that Mr. Belton, a native of Alabama,
made a public profession of religion at the age of seventeen, and at
once commenced preparing for the ministry. Entering college during
the junior year, he graduated with honor at the end of the course, hav-
ing maintained a high reputation for moral and religious character
among his feUow-students and the faculty. Following the convictions
of duty, he soon offered himself for the China mission, and being cor-
dially accepted, embarked for that distant field with his young and ex-
cellent wife, bearing the sympathies and hopes of their friends and the
Church. On his arrival he gave himself to the study of the Chinese
language, and made great proficiency.

"But the climate proved unfavorable, and his health became so seriously
impaired, that, yielding to the pressure of medical advice, he reluctantly
turned his face to his native land. He was sick during the whole pas-
sage home, and on his arrival his case was deemed hopeless. He lin-
gered a few weeks, regretting almost to his last breath that he was
obliged to relinquish the chosen object of his heart — a life of labor for
his Redeemer in promoting the salvation of the heathen. He suffered
meekly, patiently, like a most devoted Christian, as he was in the esti-
mation of all who knew him, and died in great peace, leaving a widow
and two small children — one born the day before the funeral. A large
number of clergymen from the different Methodist churches in New-
York and Brooklyn were present on the occasion. The body was tem-
porarily deposited in the dead-house in Greenwood. Mr. Belton died at
the early age of twenty-two."

It is a conceded point that the correct teaching of youth in well-estab-
lished and properly conducted schools, would be of great service, and
greatly further the efforts of our faithful and devoted missionaries. To
this end, in the appropriations for 1854, special reference was had. But
from the unsettled state of the country, and the danger of the destruc-
tion of the houses which would have necessarily to be erected for school
purposes, the amount proposed was not forwarded. In the mean time,
a faithful examination was made by the mission as to the character of
schools most needed, and which would most likely be of service to the
mission. The comparative value of male and female schools was fully
examined, and, after full reflection and deliberation, the missionaries
forwarded the communication herewith published. We think this an
important feature in the history of our mission to China, and would
like this paper, in this form, to be spread before the whole Church. It
is to be sincerely hoped that the Board may feel fully warranted in mak-
ing immediately the necessary appropriation for the establishment of
the female school or schools, as demanded.

The following is the communication referred to above :

ShangJiai, China, July 24:t7i; 1855.

Rev. E. W. Sehon, D.D. : At our last regular Mission Meeting, it was
resolved that a letter be addressed to the Board on the subject of board-

EXTRACTS FROM THE ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT. Ill

ing-schools, setting forth a statement of the amount of money necessary
to erect suitable buildings, furnish them with the necessary fixtures and
conveniences and for the annual support of a given number of pupils.
It was also thought advisable to say something as to the expediency of
employing so much of the Church funds, at the present time, as will be
necessary to erect and support a male and female boarding-school in
Shanghai. The Committee appointed to draft said letter report as fol-
lows :

1. That on careful inquiry into the expenses of the two boarding-
schools at this place— one under the care of Bishop Boone, and the other
under the care of Mrs. Bridgman— the sums necessary for the erection
of a male and female boarding-school, suited to accommodate 60 boys
and 60 girls, and for their support for one year, will be —

1. For a suitable lot for building,

2. For the erection of school-houses, etc., "^6000

3. Salary of superintendent for boys' school, 1000

4. Support of 60 boys, at $25 each, 1500

5. Support of 60 girls, at $25 each, 1500

6. Incidental expenses, 200

Ajj, , $11,200 00

Add for salary of 4 Chinese teachers, 300 00

$11,500 00

This amount will erect decent buildings, and furnish the means of
keeping up the schools for one year. If a male superintendent is placed
over the female school, his salary must be added, which will increase
the sum to more than 12,000 Shanghai dollars ; which, at the present
rates of exchange, wiU cost the Board about $16,000. This sum appears
large, but we do not think it would be safe to commence operations with
a less sum in hand ; nor can we venture to begin, until we are assured
that a regular appropriation of not less than $4000 a year will be made
for their support. A boys' school of 60 pupils will cost annually not
less than $2700. A girls' school, if one or more of the ladies in the
mission should be placed in charge of it, about $1500.

c\^n *^^ ^^^^^^ point, namely, the propriety of employing so much
of the Church funds in boarding-schools in our mission at this time,
the Committee would respectfully submit the following thoughts and
suggestions :

We believe that schools have been extravagantly extolled, and hopes
built upon them which neither the nature of the means nor the word
of God warrants. They are not a divinely appointed instrumentality ;
and while we admit them to a hij^h place in the scale of usefulness, we
must ever regard them as subordinate and inferior to the preaching of
the Gospel, as an instrumentality in the conversion of the world, and to
be used only where their support does not interfere with more' appro-
priate missionary work. It has been said that " the hope of the Church
hes in the school system," especially among the heathen; that "the
evidences of Christianity must be understood before it can be embraced."
Thus a religion which was designed by its great Author to convert and

112 MISSIONS.

save even ignorant savages, is made to wait the tardy process of intel-
lectual culture, and the souls of men saved only through a system of
human devising. We have not so learned Christ or his gospel ; and
have only to look at the multitudes of illiterate yet happy and consist-
ent Christians among the poor and the slave population of our own
country, to see a practical refutation of this unscriptural theory. No
system of human education can convert the soul ; nor do we find in
most cases that intellectual cultivation is sanctified as a means of salva-
tion. Suppose the religious instruction and salvation of the masses at
home were left to our schools and literary institutions — suppose one half
of the active ministers of the Church were taken out of the pulpit, and
put into school-houses — what would likely be the result ? Would it
tend to increase the spread of Gospel truth ? to augment the number
of the saved ? Would it not, on the contrary, have the effect to rob
the ministers of their power, while it wholly distracted their influence
from the multitudes to whom they could have access only through the
pulpit ?

But a stronger argument than we can present in any form of abstract
reasoning against the system of giving schools such undue prominence
in missionary operations, is found in the history of mission-schools
themselves. They have laeen extensively tried in the East, and with
similar results in almost every case. In Burmah, in Siam, in Ceylon,
Bengal, Calcutta, Madras, and other places, where mission-schools have
been in operation for years, but few converts have been made among
the pupils. One of the superintendents of a school in Calcutta under
the care of the Church Missionary Society, says : "Of the thousands
who have received instruction in this school during the last several
years, not more than five or six have become Christians." In all Ma-
dras, where schools have been in operation for many years, not more
than half a dozen converted natives were to be found a short time ago.
For thirty years the same was true of the mission-schools in Ceylon ;
and the same story must be written of nearly all the schools in China.
Thousands of dollars have been expended without making one single con-
vert. Schools are the most expensive department of missionary opera-
tions; and so far they have yielded less than any other. The same
amount of money which gives a teacher to 60 boys, will furnish a
preacher to 60,000 persons. So far in the history of female schools, the
success has been encouraging — far greater, in proportion to the means
employed, than in male schools. The quiet teachings of the school-room
have a much greater impression upon the girls than upon the boys.
Their habits of retirement render it a much easier matter to govern
them.

With a female boarding-school, all the members of our mission could
be constantly, actively, and usefully employed ; the male members in
their appropriate department as preachers of the Gospel, and the female
in their most appropriate sphere as teachers of the youth — training and
educating the future mothers of China. The Committee would respect-
fully submit it to the Bishops and Board, whether it would not be best
under present circumstances, to employ the amount voted for a male and
female boarding-school, in the erection and support of a female school
only, leaving future developments to shape our course in regard to the
male department.

EXTRACTS FROJI THE ELEVENTH ANKUAL REPORT. 113

In conclusion, wc would remark that we would not be understood as
being opposed to male boarding-schools, or to schools in general, except
where they are made to take the place of the divinely-appointed means,
and to absorb an undue proportion of the Church funds. We are sure
you will unite with us in giving greatest prominence to the means of
the Saviour's own appointment — in this we have the encouraging exam-
ple of our fathers. The present elevated position of the M. E. Church has
not been gained through the influence of our schools and colleges, what-
ever good these have done, but by the zealous and faithful labors of the
pulpit.

Hoping that you will consider the views herein expressed as correct,
and wishing you individually all possible good, we are, dear brethren.

Yours, most affectionately,

"W". G. E. CUNNTNGHAM,

D. C. Kelley,
James S. Belton.

"W^e give below some very interesting extracts from a letter lately re-
ceived from Brother Kelley, and with them close our remarks upon this
mission.

Last Sabbath — the first in October — with the Friday and Saturday
preceding, may bear chronicled upon their records, for the doings of
Methodism in the Middle Kingdom, the first Quarterly Meeting Meth-
odism has ever held within its so-supposed world-wide limits. And we,
who have seen the old banner spread so gallantly out upon the western
breezes, and our impetuous hosts storm with such ardor the enemy's
redoubts, while drilled beneath its colors, could but feel our hearts
swell and beat with impulses more hopeful than was their wont, as
we stood by tlie staff upon which, for the first time, it unfolded to the
Orient.

Nor were the exercises of the Sabbath of a character to detract from
the buoyancy which the occasion had begotten in our hearts. Brother
Cunnynham had preached the two days previously, and at eleven o'clock
in the morning ; when the principal services for the day came on in the
afternoon, commencing at three o'clock, introduced by a lecture on the
Nature of Water Baptism, by Brother C, followed by the reading of
our baptismal service in Chinese, and the baptism of a woman who has
long been a servant in Brother C.'s family, and was with Dr. Taylor
before his leaving. Brother C, who has of course the most intimate
acquaintance with her, believes her not only to be a thorough convert
from idolatry, but a true and rejoicing Christian.

The baptism was followed by an able, earnest, and I might be allowed
to add, from the attention with which the people listened, impressive
sermon, from our native preacher, Licw. The discourse was full of zeal,
and addressed very pointedly against the great outstanding vices of his
countrymen. He is as decidedly an anti-opium man as you are anti-
liquor; and, as his physical capacity is about a match for yours, mauls
away against it with about as much might as you are accustomed to do.
The services closed with a warm exhortation from Dr. Jenkins, in which
he enforced the necessity of at once believing the truths which had been
unfolded to their view during the hour.

114 MISSIONS.

Such scenes as these are nice enough, and throw a halo of delight
around the tedious labors of your missionaries here : yet we can but
feel a little pained amidst them, when we feel that there is a probability
that the Church at home may be looking on our stay here as a matter
of rather doubtful utility ; while this pain is in nowise diminished when
we find in reUgious papers from home — which ought to be the guardians
of pure foreign as well as home inteUigence — repeated statements which
are calculated to cast a chilling effect over the view with which the
Church may look on Christianity and its doings in China.

We would seek to disabuse the public mind of the idea, no matter
how slightly entertained, that the prospects of Christianity are a whit
less bright in China at the present moment than they have been in real-
ity at any former time ; while we add the decidedly aflSrmative fact, that
her march at several of the posts is undoubtedly onward.

Another thing which has been more than any thing else the fault, as
we fear, of many of our readers at home, is a want in distinguishing
properly between the great Tai-ping-wang rebellion and the local rebel-
lion at Shanghai, which had, so far as we are able to trace, no connec-
tion with the former. As a consequence, the former has shared in the
abuse which writers have deemed proper to heap so plentifully on the
latter. Now, the nearest wing of the great rebellion is so far distant
from Shanghai, and is so thoroughly disconnected with it, that since
the arrival of your last missionaries at Shanghai, there has not been
one single reUable development in reference to the doctrines of the Tai-
ping-wang camp received here. The last,' prior to their arrival, brought
(with a knowledge of many corruptions) the assertion, in books circu-
lated by the rebels, of many Christian truths. We have just read the
translation of a pamphlet, written some years ago by Dr. Medhurst, and
with but little change reprinted by the rebels, fuU of wholesome and
Christian truth on the being and nature of God. May it not, then,
seem a little strange to some of us nearest the scene of action, to see,
ever and anon, some new item or opinion with reference to the late de-
velopments from the Tai-ping-wing adherents, usually relating to the
great amount of deception which they and their early representatives
had practised upon the world ?

You will doubtless hardly expect me, after what has been said above,
to give any new facts, pro or con, in reference to this movement, towards
which the Church has looked with so much intense desire. I have
only to add, that while there was extravagance, possible, in the expect-
ations entertained by some early letter-writters, that there are yet some
sober thinkers in China who believe the truth of which the rebels are
possessed to be of value to the prospects of a pure Christianity. I had
a teachei', some months ago, who could say from personal knowledge,
and with apparent regret, that the rebels not only dismantled Nankin,
when they entered it, of every idol, but also destroyed what are more
sacred — the ancestral tablets ; his, as he was residing in the city at the
time, being among the number.

We can well perceive how the highly excited hopes of earUer writers
could have led them too far ; but it is difficult to fathom the object of
later wi-iters, who would destroy recklessly the hopes of our people at
home, together with their ardent support, by prayers and money, of the
missions which have already been established here. To think too well

EXTRACTS FROM THB ELEVENTH ANNUAL REPORT.

115

of our prospects, is not, in all respects, to be desired ; but let not a darker
cloud than is necessary be made to encircle them.

VI. Pacific Conference.

It can not be otherwise than that for some time to come this young
and growing Conference should be looked upon and reported as mis-
sionaiy ground. Our contributions and appropriations must still be
made to aid in the prosecution of the work in that most interesting field
of labor. California must not be given up or abandoned by us as a Church.

We have just received information from the last session of this Con-
ference, which we incorporate in our report. There are 28 appoint-
ments, with 28 ministers, and 1016 members, with 16 local preachers.
This shows an increase in the membership of 177, and an increase of 2
local preachers. The amount raised for missions is small, very small,
amounting only to $219.55. We hope the year to come will show a
very large advance upon that sum. Bishop Kavanaugh, as has been
already announced, was detained on his way by unforeseen circum-
stances. The Conference adjoiirned on the 26th of February last, after
a peaceful and quiet session of four days. The Bishop did not reach
San Francisco until some days after the adjournment of the Conference.
He preached twice in San Francisco on the Sabbath after his arrival, to
large and very attentive congregations. His own health and that of Mrs.
Kavanaugh is reported to be very good.

ReC APITUL ATI ON,

I. Missions in the Destitute Portions of the Regular Work.

Oonferenoea. Missions.

1. Western Virginia,. . . 5

2. Kentucky, 9

3. Louisville, 9

4. Missouri, 13

5. St. Louis, 11

6. Kansas, 12

7. Ouachita, 6

8. Arkansas, 10

9. Holston, 14

10. Tennessee, 4

11. Virginia, 8

12. Mississippi, 6

13. Georgia, 11

14. Alabama, 8

15. Louisiana, 2

16. North-Carolina, .... 6

17. Memphis, 3

18. Florida, 12

19. South-Carolina, 3

20. Texas 10

21. East-Texas, 8

Total, ,

169

Mis'nries. W. M.

O.M.

CJis. 8. Schs.

Sch'

865

637

1009

510

3506

373

1658

386

577

• . ■

, ^

• ■ •

808

2073

3064

113

863

918

1225

, ,

999

3318

106

1387

1925

405

216

, ,

> ■ ■ «

1532

120

445

1541

1252

269

762

117

1061

....

1095

50
1324

2
45

1(18

138

156

30,080

4()4'J

116 MISSIONS.

II. Missions among the People of Colok.

Conferences. Missions. Mis''nries. C. M. Cha. Sch'ra.

1. St. Louis, 2 2 1200 2 200

2. Holston, 11 401 1 190

3. Tennessee, 7 7 2523 5 1275

4. Virginia, 6 6 1901 1 150

5. Arkansas and Ouachita, 6 3 2808 . . ....

6. Memphis, 15 14 3585 23 1500

7. Mississippi, 23 13 5325 3 350

8. North-Carolina, 6 4 2715

9. South-Carolina, 24 26 9837 .. 4036

10. Alabama, 33 34 8206 12 3531

11. Florida, 7 6 1277 . . 983

12. Louisiana, 12 6 3638 . . 743

13. Texas, 10 10 1040 2

14. Georgia, 27 16 7633 . . 2086

Total, 179 148 52,085 53 14,954

in. German Missions.

16 missions, 15 missionaries, 646 members, 8 churches, 12 Sabbath-
schools, and 274 scholars.

rV". Indian Missions.

3fis. MWries. MerrCrs. Chs. Schs. SeKrs. S. S. Pupils.
Indian Mission Con.,* 30 26 4379 38 27 1247 8 489
Echota, 1 1 158 ' 1 1 20

Total, 31 27 4477 39 28 1267 8 489

V. China Mission.

1 mission ; 4 missionaries.

From the above recapitulation, it will be found that we have at pre-
sent under our pastoral care :

I. Li the Destitute Portions of our Regular Worh — 160 missions;
147 missionaries ; 29,072 white, and 1321 colored members ; with 39
churches, 103 Sabbath-schools, and 4139 scholars.

II. Among the People of Color — 173 missions; 145 missionaries;
52,085 colored members ; with 53 churches, and 14,954 children under
religious instruction.

III. Among the Germans — 16 missions; 15 missionaries; 646 mem-
bers ; 8 churches, 12 Sunday-schools, and 274 scholars.

IV. Among the Indian Tribes — 31 missions ; 27 missionaries ; 4477
members ; 39 churches, 28 Sabbath-schools, 1267 scholars, 8 manual-
labor schools, and 489 pupils.

••I:

Indians, 3S69

♦Whole number of Commumcants.-^ Whites, 169

^Colored, 4S9

Total, 4477

extracts from the eleventh annual report. 117

General Aggregate,

Missions, 395

Missionaries, 346

Churches, 145

Church members, 88,111

Sunday-schools, 150

Children under religious instruction, 20,628

Manual-Labor Schools, 9

Indian Pupils, 489

Amount of Missionary Collections in the Several

Conferences.

Kentucky, $2,859 75

Louisville, 1,878 53

Missouri, 2,697 18

St. Louis, 1,826 73

Tennessee, 7,716 42

Holston, 3,567 35

Memphis, 11,532 71

Mississippi, 11,132 73

Louisiana, 4,352 33

Virginia, , 12,483 15

Western Virginia, 1,169 50

North-CaroUna, 10,806 17

Georgia, 18,975 26

South-Carolina, '. 26,020 61

Alabama, 23,284 12

Florida, 4,087 48

Texas, 3,834 11

East-Texas, 2,058 85

Arkansas, 691 40

Ouachita, 2,173 35

Pacific, 219 55

Indian Mission, 1,581 25

U. S. Government,* 18,000 00

$172,654 53
Item.

The first man who ever paid a cent into the Treasury of our Missionary
Society, to establish a mission in China, is said to be the Eev. S. B,
Sykes.

Nobly Done.

We have received, says the Nashville Advocate, a note jfrom a brother
in Alabama, covering a draft for a thousand dollars — a donation to the
missionary cause. We are not permitted to give the place or name ;
but the following will show the spirit in which the money is given.

* This amount is received under contract with the Qovermnent for the proper educatioo
of Indian youth In the different tribes.

118 MISSIONS.

The brother making this donation is by no means a wealthy man, but
he has a proper view of his steicardsliip. How many others there are
in the Church, who could do the same and never part with even a luxury,
while they would aid to swell the numbers and harmonies of heaven !
brethren ! your gold will canker if you are not careful ! This is by
no means the first noble act of the kind which this brother has performed.
" Inclosed you have my bill on New- York, sixty days' date, in favor of
W. R. Elliston, for one thousand dollars, which I desire to be a donation
to the Missionary Society of the Church — a fi-ee-will offering to the
Lord, as an acknowledgment of his divine providence in good to me ;
and given, I trust, with a single eye — I know with a willing heart. Let
the ' handful of corn on the top of the growing mountain shake like
Lebanon.' I give money for missions because it stirs me like the blast
of a trumpet. Let this war roll on, and my one thousand dollars do
all the good in aid and comfort which I heartily desire."

[From the Home Circlei]
Incidents in Missionary Life.

By Rev. J. B. M'Ferrin, D.D.

Many interesting incidents are recorded in the history of the abori-
gines of North- America ;^and perhaps -none are more thrilling than
those witnessed by the missionaries, who went out at an early period
to labor for the conversion of the rude sons of the forest. But little,
however, has been written of the missionary enterprises of Southern
men among the Indians of the South and South-west, notwithstanding
in labors they have been abundant, and in success almost unparalleled.
Few fields have more fully repaid the hand of the diligent servant of
Jesus Christ than those lying within the limits of the Cherokee Nation,
east of the Mississippi river. To say nothing of the efforts of sister
denominations, the Methodists began their work and labor of love among
the Cherokees some thirty-five years ago. Among the first missionaries
employed by the Tennessee Conference was the Rev. Richard Neely, a
young man of deep piety and much promise to the Church of Christ.
The writer knew him well, and can bear testimony to his zeal and de-
votion to the cause of Christ. He was a native Tennesseean, was a poor
boy, and was bound to a wheelwright to learn his trade. His early op-
portimities for acquiring learning were therefore very limited ; but he
had a strong mind, a warm heart, a genteel person, and a sweet voice ;
and, above all, he was a thorough Christian. His success among the
Indians was remarkable ; but his race was short : he died after a few
years, and his bones rest with the dust of red men who sleep in their
"ftither-land."

Mr. Neely was soon followed by others who were willing to sacrifice
home and ease, and forego the enjoyments of civilized life to bring the
wandering wild man to the cross of Christ, where he might find j^ardon,
peace, and heaven. These soon spread over great portions of the terri-
tory, and planted the banner of the Gospel upon the mountain-top and
in the deep, dark valleys, where the joyful tidings of salvation had
never before broken the dull silence, or waked an echo in the hearts of

EXTEACTS FROM THE ELEVENXn ANNUAL KEPOET. 119

those who had ever sat in the shadow of death, with no light shining
upon the unpierced future.

As early as 1828, the writer was detailed with a band of noble young
men for this interesting and important work. Here he spent two years,
preaching to the natives, and teaching their children the elements of an
English education. His second year was devoted to the circuit work.
His charge embraced a circumference of four hundred miles, and included
the rugged and lofty peaks of the Raccoon, Lookout, and Pigeon Mount-
ains. This circuit he performed once in four weeks. He was accom-
panied by an interpreter, and preached the Gospel in several Indian
towns that had never before been visited by the missionaries. One of
these lay south of the Coosa river, a region of country now embraced in
the Georgia Conference.

Accompanied by that noble chief, Edward Gunter, k half-breed — a
whole-souled Christian and thorough Methodist, he wended his way into
the village, and there, under the boughs of a wide-spreading forest tree,
he opened his mission to some who had never before heard the Gospel
from the lips of a living minister. The attention was profound, and
the effect apparently wonderful. While he told the story of the cross,
and pointed the untutored children of the wilderness to the Lamb of
God who taketh away the sin of the world, their hearts were melted
into tenderness, and tears of penitence and gratitude gushed from eyes
unused to weep, as they asked if they were embraced in the plan of sal-
vation. The most affecting scene was the appearance of an aged wo-
man in the crowd. She had reached, as was supposed, her hundredth
year. Her locks were as white as wool, and floated in the winds of
heaven. Time's ploughshare had made deep and lengthened furrows in
her swarthy face ; her form was trembling on the verge of the grave,
beyond which there was, to her, no light, no hope. When she listened
to the message of mercy, and was told that Christ had brought life and
immortality to light by the Gospel, her eye was lightened with joy, her
countenance beamed with hope, and with streaming eyes she approach-
ed the interpreter, and asked to have a place among the people of Him
who died to save her soul, and rose from the dead to insure her resur-
rection. The heart of the preacher dissolved within him ; he was over-
powered with a sense of gratitude to God, that he was the honored in-
strument in bearing the tidings of salvation to one who, like Simeon,
embraced Christ on the threshold of eternity, and having caught the
light of immortality, was ready to depart, and enter into the rest of
God's people. To him there is no incident in his ministerial life fraught
with more intense interest. The message was just in time.

Another.

It was at the breaking up of winter. The missionary had left four
weeks previous, to keep an appointment to preach in an Indian village,
hitherto unvisited by the heralds of the cross. He spent the night at
the house of John Ross, the principal chief of the nation, near to where
the beautiful town of Rome, Ga., now stands. The village lay at the
base of a mountain some twenty-five miles distant. The winding trail
was stringe, neither the missionary nor his interpreter having ever
passed thai way. The day had not more than dawned when they were

120 MISSIONS.

moving in the direction of their new appointment, The north wind
blew fiercely, accompanied by rain and hail ; but, nothing daunted,
they pressed forward, resolved that the Indians should know that they
were in earnest, and that their message was too important to be hin-
dered by a change in the weather. They had made about one half
their journey when they were met in the dim path by an Indian who
had come to guide them. The salutations exchanged, the guide led the
way and the missionary followed, till they approached an intermediate
village, where a repast had been prepared for the coming strangers.

The jaded horses were fed, and seated by a warm fire in the rude hut
the missionary awaited the announcement of breakfast, which was pre-
paring with great care and at the utmost expense. At length the wel-
come and weU-known sound broke the silence, Gutstian-ooka — " Come
and eat." A rough stool was prepared for the missionary, and he, with
a few select friends of the family, was seated at a coarse table, laden
with the good things of the village. In the centre sat a pewter basin
containing pieces of middling, fi-ied almost to a crisp, floating in the es-
sence. In a circle around this common centre lay fiat cakes of boiled
bread made of pounded meal and beans kneaded together. This is a
great delicacy. On these were placed, in regular order, small sweet
potatoes, which had been boiled until they were thoroughly done. Near
by was a large iron kettle filled with sassafras tea, made of the
drippings of the sugar-maple. This was served up in tin cups, wooden
bowls, and such other ware as could be xiommanded. Having returned
thanks, each helped himself, and all made a hearty meal. The mission-
ary has a more vivid recollection of this repast than any other feast
ever prepared for him ; and never did he enjoy a breakfast to a higher
degree. Only one small incident marred the beauty and pleasure of the
banquet. An athletic young Indian, rude and filthy, whose appetite seem-
ed to be whetted for the occasion, and who could command neither knife,
fork, nor spoon, plunged his hand into the basin, and immersed it to the
knuckles, fishing for the bacon, which was grateful to his craving
stomach. But this was only a slight breach of etiquette, which was
soon forgotten amidst the pleasure of a repast so bountiful, and served
with so much generosity.

The breakfast over, and prayer offered for their host and hostess, the
missionary pursued his way, and at the time appointed met a large col-
lection of Cherokees, to whom, day and night, he proclaimed the word
of life. Souls were enhghtened, converted, and saved ; and a church
was afterwards organized which grew and flourished abundantly.

In another village, some ten mUes distant, the missionary had an ap-
pointment, where souls were converted and a society was organized.
Here the word produced a deep effect, and many were the subjects of
the powerful workings of the grace of Christ. At one of his meetings
he dedicated to God, in the ordinance of baptism, an aged woman, her
daughter and grandchildren. Near by knelt an aged Indian man, who
had professed faith in Christ, and was admitted to baptism. He seem-
ed to be very devout ; but at his side hung a huge butcher's knife,
which he carried not as an weapon of offense or defense, but merely
as a convenience. Though surrounded by a crowd of Indians — not a
person save himself being present through whose veins flowed the blood
of the white man — ^he felt secure ; for he knew that souls under the

KXTllACrs FROil THE ELEVEXTU ANNUAL REPORT. 121

subduing power of the Gospel were not savage, but meek and docile ;
ready, like a teachable child, to learn the lessons of holiness as they pro-
ceeded from the word of God or the lips of his minister. Such is the
power of God. The lion is converted into the Iamb, the fierce savage
becomes the brother of his former foe, and those who met in fearful
conflict on the battle-field kneel together at the altar and worship in
one brotherhood their father, God, who made of one blood all nations
that dwell on the foce of the earth.

BEAK-siTTrxG-DOWN. — Sucli was the uncomely name of a huge Chero-
kee. Long before he heard the Gospel, had the white man introduced
the " fire-water" into his nation, and he became an occasional drunkard.
He resided in the vicinity of Creek Path ; and whenever he could com-
mand the means, he resorted to the grog-shop kept by a white brother
more savage than himself, and there he drank to intoxication. In the
mean time. Rev. A. F. Driskell came to his village as a missionary ; and
Bear-sitting-down, prompted by curiosity, went to hear of this new re-
ligion. The word entered his heart, he was awakened, and his spirit
became ti-oubled. To drown his sorrows, he went to his old resort, and
swallowed the inebriating draught. On his way home he was over-
powered by strong drink, and fell near the path, where he lay unable to
help himself. His mind, however, remained more active than his body.
He gave himself to serious reflection ; he saw the folly of his course ;
he thought of the missionary and his new religion ; he resolved to re-
form and try the Gospel plan. Becoming sober, he recovered himself,
forsook the accursed cup, united with the Church, found the pearl of
price, and became a happy and consistent follower of Christ. Four
years afterwards he died in the faith, giving glory to Jesulcalanati —
" Jesus the anointed." The writer preached his funeral discourse to a
weeping, happy crowd, who gave glory to God for this new religion
which had saved their brother, and given him the victory over himself
and victory over the fear of death.

These are a few incidents connected with tlie missionary enterprises
of the Church, which demonstrate the Gospel to be the power of God
unto salvation to every one who believes. Such an enterprise com-
mends itself to the prayers and liberality of all who love the Lord Jesus
in truth and sincerity, and who wish to see a race cursed by sin elevat-
ed in the scale of being and restored to the image of God, in which man
was originally created.

122 COLLEGES AXD SCHOOLS.

CHAPTER V.

COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

[From Nashville Advocate, January 3.]

Shelbyville Univeksity.

The Tennessee Conference some years since, accepted a generous pro-
position fi-om the citizens of Shelbyville, Tennessee, by which a hi<:h
school was located in that prosperous and growing town. The trusteus
elected Rev. A. L. Hamilton President of the institution, and at once de-
termined to push into existence an institution of high order, and hence
they have obtained a charter for a University, and are resolved to pro-
secute the work with vigor. President Hamilton is a gentleman of greiit
energy of character, and will go far towards carrying out the plans and
purposes of the trustees. Aided by an able faculty, and receiving the
hearty cooperation of the citizens of Bedford and the friends of learning,
the institution will exert a healthful influence on the educational inter-
ests of Tennessee. If the friends of the enterprise expect to succeed,
and desire to build up a respectable and permanent University, they
must lend a liberal hand, and secure a large endowment. Let them
take Greensboro', Ala., as an example. Already have the citizens of
that town raised one hundred and sixty-eight thousand — with the j)ro-
mise that it shall exceed two hundred thousand dollars — for a Methodist
college. Tennessee is rich, and has increased in goods ; but we can
not say she wants nothing : she does want well-endowed institutions of
learning ; and these she wiU never have till her wealthy citizens exhibit
an enlarged liberality. Now if the citizens of Shelbyville and Bedford
and the adjoining communities, will go to work with the right spirit,
they may do something worthy a people who have the means at com-
mand. Will they do it ? We shall see.

[From the Southern Advocate, Jan. 3.]

Emory College.

Our readers are aware that Dr. Means, at the July meeting of the
Board of Trustees of Emory College, tendered his resignation, and the
Hon. H. W. HiUiard was elected to fill the vacancy. He, however, de-
chned accepting the presidency, and Dr. Means has held the place pro
tempore until now. At the recent meeting of the Board at the Conference
the vacancy was filled by the election of the Rev. James R. Thomas,
who accepts the position, and enters immediately upon the duties of his
oflBce.

SOULK UNIVKRSITY. 123

Dr, Means retires from the College after a long and faithful service in
the arduous labors of his profession — labors that have profited many of
the rising men of this generation, and he leaves behind him the memory
of a zealous teacher, a faithful friend to the young, and an able minister
of the Gospel. It was occasion of regret to many that it was found im-
possible to make such an arrangement as would still secure his servi-
ces ; but the Medical College in Augusta pressed its claim to his most
cfBcient services there in such way that he found himself forced to yield
to the necessities of his position and resign the presidency We under-
stood, incidentally, at the Conference, that some of his classes — the
senior class, we believe — had shown its high respect for him by a hand-
some present, and that the citizens and the students perhaps had unit-
ed, and presented him with a valuable watch in token of their affection.
Though Dr. Means is separated now from an institution he has long
served, we are confident that so long as he can labor, his energies and
example will be given to the Church and cause of which for so many
years he has been a faithful servant.

As we have already said, the Eev. J. R. Thomas has been elected to
iiU the vacancy. Mr. T. is a ripe scholar, a graduate of Randolph Ma-
con College, a pupil of Dr. Olin, and most favorably known as a teach-
er. While he was engaged in this work no man deserved or had a
higher reputation. Six years ago he retired from the profession to seek
the restoration of his impaired health, and he has since led a private life.
He returns to his work with firmer nerves and a stronger constitution,
and we predict that, if his health continue, Emory College will rank
with any of our Southern colleges in discipline, morality, and schoarship.

[From the N. 0. Advocate.]

Southern University.

The following are the names of the Trustees elected by the Alabama
Conference to manage the affairs of the College : Bishop Paine, Presi-
dent; Bishop Andrew, Rev. J. Hamilton, D.D., Rev. A. H. Mitchell,
D.D., Rev. Phillip P. Neely, Rev. Thomas J. Koger, Rev. C. C. Cal-
loway, Rev. J. J. Hutchinson, Rev. J. Heard, Rev. T. Y. Ramsey, Rev.
Ed. Wards worth, D.D., Rev. L. Q. C. De Yampert, John Erwin, Thomas
M. Johnston, Gaston Drake, John W. Walton, Wm. T. Webb, Gideon
E. Nelson, H. W. Hilliard, R. Baker, Duke Goodman, C. Coleman.

HuNTSviLLE Female College.

We learn that the name of the Bascom Female Institute, at Hunts-
ville, Ala., has been changed by the Legislature of Alabama to that of
the Huntsville Female College. A friend from Iluntsville tells us that
the institution is prospering, and promises great usefulness. — Nashville
Adv., January 17.

[From Texas Advocate, Feb. 7.]

SouLE University — Trustees' Meeting.

The Trustees of Soule University, met at Chappell Hill on Friday,
the 18th of January, and there being a quorum present, they pro-

124 COLLEGES ASV S€HOOJ,S.

ceeded to organize. Thomas B. White was elected President ; John
H. Davidson, Secretary ; William Chappell, Auditor, and L. D. Bragg,
Treasurer.

The funds in notes, bonds, and muniments of title to lands, as pre-
sented to the Commissioners appointed by the Texas Conference to
locate the Soule University, on April 1st, 1855, were received and ac-
cepted by the Board, as the property of said University.

WiUiam J. Sasnett, of Emory College, Georgia, was elected President.

James M. FoUansbee, late of Andrew Female College, Huntsville,
Texas, Professor of Languages.

John N. Kirby, Principal of the Preparatory Department.

The beneficiary system was adopted by the Board.

It was resolved by the Board, that the sons of the ministers of the
Texas Conference be permitted to receive instruction in the Prepar-
atory Department and Soule University, free of charge for tuition.

And it was further resolved, that the sons of the ministers in East-
Texas Conference shall be permitted the same privilege ; provided, that
said Conference shall identify themselves with, and assist in carrying
forward, the interests of said Soule University.

The Board of Trustees adopted By-laws and Regulations for their
government, and the police of the University.

The regular annual meetings of the Board of Trustees shall be on the
Monday before commencement day, which shall be the last Wednesday
of June of each year.

And, it was resolved, that all the members of the Board are required
to be punctual in attendance upon the annual meetings ; and an absence
from the same, without notice to the Secretary, and good cause shown
for the absence, shall be construed as a resignation, and their seats may
be declared vacant, and others elected to fill such vacancies.

Resolved, That every student, whose parent or guardian does not
reside in or very near the town of Chappell Hill, shall have a Uni-
versity Patron, to be selected by himself or friends, by whom his finan-
cial affairs shall be managed ; and all funds for the use of the student
must be deposited with his patron ; and such patron shall pay no debt
which the student may contract without his consent, except for text-
books and board ; and should any such debt be contracted without
such consent, and is afterwards paid by the parent or guardian, it shall
operate as a dismissal of such student from the University.

A regular course of study was adopted for the Preparatory Depart-
ment, and the Freshmen, Sophomore, Junior and Senior years.

Resolved, That the Faculty shall quarterly forward to the parents or
guardians of students, circulars setting forth their conduct and advance-
ment in their studies.

Published by order of the Board.

Thos. B. White, PresH.
John H. Davidson, Sec'y.
CMivpell Hill, Jan. 18, 1856.

Florence Wesley an University.

The history of La Grange College is familiar to most of our readers.
The Conferences patronizing the College voted for its removal to Flo-

Fl40RE>X'K WKSLEYAX UNIVERSITY. 125

rence, Ala. The charter obtained gives the institution the name of
"Florence TVesleyan University." The following notice we copy
from a correspondence of the New- Orleans Christian Advocate:

"Mr. Editor: You are aware that the patronizing Confei'ences di-
rected the removal of La Grange College to Florence ; but tiie majority
of the Trustees refused to comply with the wishes of said Conferences.
Still, La Grange College at Florence opened its first session on the 21st
of February, 1855. The entire Faculty, being Methodists, chose to be
governed by the Conferences ; and a large majority of the students
came to Florence. The first year of the existence of the College at its
new location has been by flir the most prosperous in its history. One
hundred and ninety students have been in attendance, from some half-
dozen different States. Since the Institution was removed to Florence,
its act of incorporation has granted it but hmited powers, and the Le-
gislature has been asked for a more liberal charter. In view of the fact
that the recusant Trustees are endeavoring to keep up an institution at
the old site, the friends of the College have consented to a change of
name ; and La Grange College at Florence has become the ' Florence
Wesleyan University.' There has not been a serious case of sickness
among the students. Our session will close in a few weeks, and the
next open the 20th February. Our Professors are all at their posts, at-
tending faithfully to their duties. Mr. J. W. Harris has been elected
Principal of the Preparatory Department. He was awhile student at
Centenary, and gained much credit by his standing as a scholar. He is
a most laborious and successful teacher, of many years' experience. The
students are about establishing a ' College Magazine,' to be edited by
two members from each Literary Society — all members of the Senior
Class. We expect a fine magazine. The fii-.st number, I learn, will be
out very soon. They now have four hundred subscribers. I think
such an enterprise should be encouraged by all lovers of education,
morality, and sound learning ; for it certainly encourages all this in the
students. But when young men who undertake such do not meet with
encouragement from older and more experienced persons, they become
discouraged. They need much ' solid, tangible' encouragement, such
as you editors deserve certainly, but alas! too often fall far below your
just deserts.

" But I must inform you of the best news yet. Mr. Geo. W. Foster has
given ten thousand dollars to endow the Professorship of Mathematics,
to be called the Foster Professorship. Mr. Wm. Dickson has given five
thousand dollars, and Messrs. "Weakly and Kennedy each gave twentv-
five hundred to endow another, and Dr. J. W. Stewart has given one
thousand dollars towards endowing the Professorship of Modern Lan-
guages. We have the promise of a fine library from another wealthy
source, and I hope other liberal, noble spirits will endow all the chairs ;
and then, Mr. Editor, it will not be longer said, that the Methodist
Church, South has not one richly-endowed college. Long maj'' Messrs.
Foster, Dickson, Weakly, Kennedy, and Stewart live to enjoy their
wealth, and to see ' Florence Wesleyan University' the Cambridge of
the South. Where they give himdreds, may they receive thousands —
where they give thousands, may they receive tens of thousands! They
are making a sure investment, and their children will enjoy it after
they are dead.

126 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

" Who will send in and take stock in the Florence Wesleyau Univer-
sity? Ours is a Methodist College; we have now some half-dozen ta-
lented young men who are preparing for the ministry. And who can
tell how many faithful and pious ministers may yet go from Florence ?"

Spaktanburg Feiiale College.

We have received a copy of the eloquent address delivered 22d Aug.,
1855, at the inauguration of the Spartanburg Female College, by W. Gil-
more Sims, Esq. The speaker nobly vindicates education as a first neces-
sity of the race ; and with truth and eloquence contends against woman's
assuming the false position into which they would place their sex, who
are clamoring for equality and close companionship with man in all the
sterner duties of life. He assigns her the true place as wife and mother,
and pleads for an education suited to her duties.

S. Bobo, Esq., President of the Board of Trustees, gives a preface in
which we have an account of the Institution, its Faculty, Course of
Study, and Terms of Instruction, from which we give the following
large extract :

" The Spartanburg Female College was founded by the joint iibcrahty
of the South-Carolina Methodist Conference, and the citizens of the
town of Spartanburg. Its purpose is the improvement and elevation
of the system of female education in the State. Though under the
patronage and control of the South-CarOlina Conference, the institution
is not designed for any sectarian object, nor with any view to influence
or determine the religious faith of the pupils. The agency of the Con-
ference contemplates nothing more than a guarantee to the public, of the
moral and religious character of the instruction to be given ; to assure
them that such moral and religious instruction will be given, and
those religious tenets alone will be taught upon which all Christians are
agreed. In no case wUl the attempt be made to bias the young mind
in regard to any church relations, or to establish a predilection in be-
half of the rites, ceremonies, or tenets of any peculiar institution.

"In order the better to assure the public of the just spirit in v/hich
the College has been founded, and of the purpose of the Trustees to
make it subservient to the high and useful ends which it contemnlates,

O A. 1

they have been at special pains to place it, from the start, under the
best intellectual and moral auspices. They have elected as President,
J. Wofford Tucker, Esq. — a gentleman well and favorably known
throughout the State ; a distinguished member of the Legislature, a
successful professor in the courts of law, a man of refined literary
taste, of great energy, calm, resolute character, and well-balanced and
discriminating mind. They conceive him to be particularly well quali-
fied for the duties of the arduous and responsible station to which they
have assigned him. In respect to the other Professors chosen, similar
guarantees are given to the public in behalf of the Institution. Mis.<
Phoebe Paine, who assists in the English Department, and is besides
Professor of Modern Languages, brings, along with a high reputation ps
a successful teacher, the most satisfectory testimonials, fi-om the least
disputable authorities. Mr. St. Pierre E. Sunier is at the head of the
Musical Department. He brings with him a high reputation, acquired
during a long practice as a professor of this delightful art, as an accom-

SPAUTAXBUKCt FK.MALK COLLKGE. 127

plished and distinguished teacher, and a courteous and well-bred gentle-
man.

'• Thus for the present, the several departments are supplied. The
Board of Instructors will be increased by the next term, and the Trus-
tees pledge themselves to observe the same care, discrimination, and
solicitude, in the choice of each additional teacher or professor ; so that
the Institution may become every thing that a patronizing community
can desire.

"While, however, none but the first-class instructors will be selected,
the Board do not intend that their employment shall increase, in any
way, the pecuniary burdens, upon parents, of the education v/hich is
given to their children. They will maintain their original purpose of
cheapeiiing the cost of instruction, so that even those who are not rich
may yet bestow upon their young the blessings of a liberal and accom-
plished education. They would have the daughters of poverty even
drink freely of the fountains of knowledge, which they propose, with
the blessing of God, to unseal for the benefit of the daughters of man."

" The Spartanburg Female College occupies an elevated and beautiful
site in the suburbs of the town, about a mile from it — a thick native
growth of woods adorns its grounds, which are ample, including many
acres. The groves and woods contiguous, the hills and dales, offer a
succession of pleasant drives and walks, which must prove great attrac-
tions and auxiliaries to proper exercise. The grounds about the whole
neighborhood are susceptible of high cultivation and great improvement,
and will receive it. The climate is mild and salubrious ; the water
pure, gushing from natural fountains. In all respects the locality is sin-
gularly fiivorable for such an establishment.

" The buildings now occupying this site, are four in number, all of
ample dimensions, and of brick. Three of these buildings are designed
as residences for the professors and pupils, together ; it being the plan
of the institution to place the interior arrangements of the College upon
ih^ family principle. The young ladies will be distributed among the
families of the President and Professors, severally. They will not be
crowded together in one large, ill-ventilated building, but placed in
groups, accoi-ding to age, sympathy, class, etc., in separate circles, in
each of which the paramount object will be, to continue to them, so far
as this may be possible, the several advantages of their own homes ; the
genial relationship and loving cares which make the charms, and are the
source, of the refinement, the gentleness, and the pure delights of the
family circle.

" 't^a^ fourth building contains the chapel and recitation rooms. All
of these structures are on a liberal scale. The apartments are large and
airy. It is proposed as soon as the increase of pupils shall render the
improvements desirable, to erect a spacious building, in the centre of
this group, in order more fully to carry out the educational enterprise
thus begun ; thus rendering the In.stitution fully worthy of the favor of
that public whose bounties it has already begun to enjoy. The trustees
and the teachers are equallj' determined that no effort shall be withheld
to justify the patronage of the community, and to secure its continuance
and increase ; and, with sincere resolve and purpose, they confidently
open its doors, and invite the liberal support of the friends of female
education throughout the countr3^

128 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

" The Spartanburg Female College was opened under the most favor-
able auspices. The inauguration took place in the College chapel on
the 22d day of August, 1855, in the presence of a large and highly grati-
fied assembly. After prayer by the Rev. Dr. Wightman, an oration
appropriate to this occasion, was delivered bj'- W. Gilmore Simms, Esq.
The President of the Board of Trustees then, after a brief narrative of
progress, transferred the College to the control of President Tucker,
who pledged himself in becoming language, to the duties of the Insti-
tution.

" With this brief narrative of this foundation and of the plan under
which its progress is to be conducted, the trustees cheei'fuUy leave it to
the unbiased judgment of their fellow-citizens to whom, vrith. a confi-
dent hope, based upon pure aims and proper endeavors, they look for
the patronage which they fondly hope will secure its perpetuity.

[From fhe Southern G. Advocate, March 6.]
Opexing of the Tuskegee Female College.

I was present at the opening of this magnificent Female College on
Monday, the 11th Feb., and felt so deeply the interest of the occasion, I
thought a " dot" of the proceedings would be acceptable to your
readers.

Sure enough, according to previous notice, the trustees had a large
number of rooms, sufficient for the purpose, in complete readiness to
open the College on Monday morning. The President, Dr. Lipscomb,
and six of the Professors were on hand ready to guide the bright-eyed
daughters of the land who should be intrusted to their care, in quest
of the treasures of knowledge. The friends of the institution were in
expectation of greeting the forthcoming multitude ; when, alas ! for
human hopes, the morning appeared, not with a bright and smiling face,
but with a clouded aspect, for a while shedding rain upon us plentifully.
Was it not a disappointment ? It was the last page in the chapter of
adversity.

From the severity of the weather, the trustees had been compelled to
defer giving the beautiful stucco finish, with the rich ornaments as de-
signed by the architect, to the fi-ont of this imposing pile ; and the grand
chapel with its great bay-windows vrith side-lights of stained glass,
through which a purple radiance shall stream upon the rostrum ; and
the finish in miniature diamond glass squares of the large Gothic win-
dows ; all this with the rich fresco work which is to complete the beauty
of this chapel — than which a grander chapel will not be found in the
United States, was still in an unfinished state. The opening also had
been delayed more than a month beyond the usual time, and now when
the day had come, the heavens were dark and unpropitious. But in our
sorrow stern nature relented ; a cold blast drove away the overhanging
darkness, and the shining heavens bade us be of good cheer.

Now from many points began the quick tramp of little feet and the
statelier march of unfolding loveliness, all moving to one point — the
College. Thither we followed. A goodly number had assembled. In
the chemical room, at a table, stood Dr. Lipscomb — the walls on all sides

OPENIXG OF THE TUSKEGKK FKJrALK COLLEGE. 129

around lined with attentive listeners. The Bible was read, solemn
prayer offered, invoking the Divine blessings upon the founders, the
faculty, the pupils, and the patrons of the College, and upon the instruc-
tions to be given to the many youthful spirits to be there assembled •
then followed an address from the President delivered with that winning
sweetness so characteristic of Dr. Lipscomb, and with touching sim-
plicity. It is important, said the Doctor, that we have a glorious launch.
But you may conceive better than I can describe how the Doctor expa-
tiated upon the idea of a gallant ship, gloriously rigged, manned by
energetic and harmonious mariners, and freighted with a multitude of
sunny-hearted passengers bent upon a voyage of rich discovery. Of
one feet we felt assured as we heard him — that the captain of this noble
vessel knew every rope in the ship. As he turned to the smallest pas-
sengers, and gently touching the little chords of their little hearts,
almost drawing audible responses from them, we were sure that (I shall
keep up the Doctor's figure) the Exploring Expedition of the Tuskegee
Female College under such command will make priceless discoveries iu
the regions of truth and wisdom.

Let us, said the Doctor, changing the figure, make our college a grxind
Temple of Peace in which a chain of interwoven hearts shall beat in
unison — ^a magic circle of love into which whoever enters shall breathe
the genial atmosphere of kindness and affection ; that together we may
faithfully and successfully study, together gleefully play at appointed
times, and together sweetly live. Be plain, said he, and scrupulously
neat in your attire. Here some of the smaller ones, feeling the power
of the Doctor's remarks, brushed their hair with their hands and looked
to see if a spot of mud was to be found upon their shoes. It was
enough ; the Doctor's spirit had won their hearts — the ship was fairly
launched.

In the afternoon, omnibuses, carriages, and buggies came bringing
new accessions ; and the cry of the happy scholars, as they eagerly
watched for new faces, was, "And still they come."

Before the close of the day, the Board of Trustees met ; high hopes
were expressed, and one of them who ought to know, for he has felt
the pulses of the public sentiment very carefully upon this subject, pre-
dicted that before the close of the year, Tuskegee Female College would
number 175 pupils, and if the profound science, elegant literature, and
wise management of the far-famed President, and the very able corps of
professors be justly appreciated, there is no doubt that it will even ex-
ceed that number.

With some friends I went through the vast edifice, admired the com-
fortable arrangements in the dormitories made by the excellent and skill-
ful Stewardess, Mrs. Baily, and entered the grand chapel. The wonder
was how so vast an apartment — really like the interior of a splendid city
church — could have been crowded within its walls.

The trustees are certainly under great obligation to that distinguished
architect, Mr. Stewart, of Philadelphia, for so admirable a plan.

Thcjcontributors to this grand edifice, its friends, and the numerous
friends of Dr. Lipscomb, will be glad to learn of this pleasant opening ;
and those who have awaited the first intelligence of it, will be gratified
to learn that Dr. Lipscomb is now ready to receive tliera immediately
into this beautiful college. A. Visitok.

130 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

"Wesleyan Female College, Murfkeesboko', N. C.

In the Richmontl Advocate of March 13, the Rev. James D. Coulling
gives an account of the examination at this Institution. We extract the
following :

The exercises of the occasion were concluded on the 22d of February.
At eleven o'clock A.M., the school left the college building and marched
to the M. E. church in the town, where the Rev. James A. Duncan deliv-
ered an eloquent address on a very interesting subject: "The School
Girl of the Times." All went away pleased and happy. At night, in
obedience to a very polite invitation from the President, the citizens for
miles around assembled and filled an immense room on the first floor of the
building, where they were spell-bound by the young ladies in the musi-
cal department of the school, under the direction of their accomplished
and talented professor. Eleven o'clock overtook them before manj^ were
aware that half the evening had sped by.

This is a religious institution, under the auspices of the M. E. Church,
South. Its professors are Christians. Many of the young ladies are
members of some one or other of the leading denominations. A decid-
edly religious influence pervades and irradiates every department.
During the month of December last, in the absence of any especial
religious services, without the interruption, to the slightest extent, of
the routine of scholastic duties, and mainly, if not solely, through the
instrumentality of the young ladies who professed religion, fifteen pro-
fessed to find the pearl of great price.

The Southern Universitt.

The 8. C. Advocate of April 3, contains a letter from the Rev. Dr.
Summers, from which we extract the following :

On Monday morning, March 17th, the Board commenced its sessions,
and continued them until Wednesday midnight. Twenty members out
of twenty-three were present, to wit : Bishops Paine and Andrew ;
Drs. Wadsworth, Summers, Hamilton, Mitchell, and Neely, Rev. Messrs.
Koger, C. C. Callaway, Hutchinson, and J. T. Heard, Messrs De Yam-
pert, Erwin, Baker, Walton, Johnson, T. W. Webb, M.D., A. A. Coir-
man, Nelson, and Drake. The Rev. T. Y. Ramsey, H. W. Hilliard, and
D. W. Goodman, were absent. The magnitude of the undertaking just-
ified the attendance of so many of the Trustees, although some of
them had to travel more than a thousand miles, and leave iniportint
interests at home in order to be present. The Hon. John Erwin pre-
sided at all the meetings of the Board — an accomj)lished and dignified
chairman. The Board met with some difficulty in fixing upon a site for
the University. They however elfected a compromise, by agreeing
unanimously on a tract of land situated east of the town, not quite a
mile from the Methodist church. Their choice gave general satisfaction
to the citizens of the place, who took a lively interest in the projected
institution. A Building Committee was appointed, consisting of Messrs.
De Yampert, Johnson, and othei's, clothed with authority to erect a
suitable edifice for the Universit}^, at an expense not exceeding forty
thousand dollars. They are not, however, to proceed to its erection

CENTENARY COLLEGE. 131

mthout first laying the plan, specifications, etc., before the Board. No
dormitories are to be built only as circumstances may have them in
requisition. The question of their utility was discussed at considerable
length ; and the Board seemed to agi-ee that their partial adoption may
be found expedient. A Committee of Finance and an Executive Com-
mittee were also appointed. Bishop Paine was chosen President of the
Board; Dr. Wadsworth, Corresponding Secretary — also, for the present
Recording Secretary; Dr. Webb, Treasurer— a happy selection. A
committee was appointed to examine into the financial state of the en-
terprise, and they reported that one hundred and thirty-eight thousand
dollars were secured by notes, and ten thousand dollars more guaranteed.
This ten thousand is one half of twenty thousand guaranteed at the
last Conference, the other half having been secured in notes by the
agent, the Rev. C. C. Callaway. After he shall have secured the other
ten thousand, he will push his agency to increase the subscriptions, so
that the University shall have every chair endowed — twenty-five thou-
sand dollars being the endowment of each professorship. This, at
eight per cent, will bring two thousand dollars per annum, which, with
a contingent arising from tuition fees, will, so far as salary can do it,
secure an able stafif of professors.

'"Tis gowd makes sogers fight the fiercer:
"Without it preaching wad be scarcer."

Teaching, too, we suppose— that is, of the sort the projectors of the
Southern University seem to demand.

The Board favored the plan of raising a fund for the education of
indigent young men, of young men who are preparing for the ministry,
and of the sons of itinerant ministers. Some speak of securing a
hundred thousand dollars for this purpose, but no amount was fixed by
the Board.

No definite immediate arrangements were made by the Board in i-e-
gard to the Faculty of the University, though a committee, of which
Bishop Paine is chairman, was constituted to take the matter under
advisement. In this matter it is the intention of the Board to make
haste slowly— no great harm will accrue to the University if it shall
not go into operation as soon as some of its ardent friends desire, ^^'e
do not want it to be like the Cologne Cathedral, never finished ; but the
oak which flourishes a thousand years does not spring to maturity, like
Jonah's gourd, in a single night.

[From the New- Orleans Advocate, April 26.]
Centenary College, Jackson, La.

Rev. W. H. Watkins writes as follows of the meeting of the Joint
Board, on the 10th inst.

The members of the Board from Mississippi were all present and
three from Louisiana. '

We found tlie excavations all made for the centre building, and the
workmen busy hiding our brick away in the foundation of the south-
west wmg. This looked a little premature— still it was well ; for, see-

132 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

ing the good work commenced, the Board authorized its Building Com-
mittee to confirm the contract and expend, if need be, fifty-seven thou-
sand dollars in completing the building.

Nine thousand dollars were at once subscribed in aid of the work, and
the Board seemed in good earnest to prosecute it to its completion.

The plan was di'awn by Mr. Simpson, who is emjjloyed to superintend
the erection of the building, and Messrs. Wall and Thomson have con-
tracted for the work.

The Board appointed a committee to prepare an address to the friends
of education, setting forth the claims, necessities, and promises of the
College.

They also authorized the Building Committee to procure a corner-
stone, which is to be laid during the commencement exercises, and
elected Kev. C. K. Marshall to deliver an address on that important occa-
sion.

They also elected Rev. J. C. Keener to preach the next annual ser-
mon. You will remember that Rev. Wm. Hyer, since deceased, was
chosen by the Board in July last.

\^From the S. C. Advocate, May 15.]

Carolina Female College.

So many are the occasions of presenting "coUegc" interests to the
public through the S. C. Advocate, that it is possible what I may say
of C. F. College, may be overlooked as an " of course" afiair, regarded
as an obtrusion, or read and dismissed without that attention and action
which it is my earnest wish to engage, and which the claims of the
College justly demand at the hands of the friends of education and reli-
gion generally in the bounds of the S. C. Conference, and of the mem-
bers of that Conference in particular. The C. F. College was founded
in 1851, by a company of enterprising men, expending largely in the
outset and assuming the liabilities incurred in the completion of the
enterprise, and has been sustained in its beneficent operations up to the
present time, with great eflbrt and sacrifice on the same philanthropic
basis. I know not of such another instance of devotion to the cause
of education and voluntary attachment to the interests of religion, in
connection with the South-CaroUna Conference, which by formal reso-
lution adopted, in 1852, the C. F. College, as its own, so far as fiUing the
president's chair with one of its members, appointing annually a Visit-
ing Committee, and patronizing and recommending it to the patronage
of our fi-iends, to do all we could for the College as a Conference ; the
trustees of the CoUege engaging on their part to educate, fi'ee of board
and tuition fees, a certain proportionate number of the daughters of
the members of the Conference. This has been done faithfully and
profitably. Rev. T. R. Walsh has been laboring as President, both for
the Churcli and College, since the adoption of the latter by the Confer-
ence, as few would or could do. The Visiting Committees, in part,
have failed to show that interest which the trustees may have wisely
judged could be secured only by some stronger identification of the
fortunes of the College with feelings of the Conference. While it is

GREENSBORO' FEMALE COLLEGE. 133

cheerfully admitted that some of the members of the S. C. Conference
feel interested in the College, is there not a number who have done
nothing since holding up their hands in the vote of adoption of
1852 ? Was there a want of sincerity originally ? Has an oblivious-
ness stolen over their minds ? Has willful neglect marked their
course? Have they said, "It is away off yonder," "It is not in
our Staie,''^ etc. ? I am talking to those who, a few years since, ap-
plauded with chivalrous stamp a certain report on " territory" made
by our delegates to the General Conference of 1850. This was done in
the Wadesboro' Conference in 1850. Bishop Paine said he never knew
any thing of the sort before. Mark, this was done by the members of
the S. C. Conference in the State of North-Carolina. This was sincere,
no doubt. But now we have a female college at Spartanburg in South-
CaroHna, and another one to be in Columbia ; and but for some inci-
dental allusions, one might infer that the boundaries for colleges if not
for conferences, were State Unes, especially when scribed with an elastic
tether rope. I have not a word against either the college at Spartan-
burg or tlie anticipated one in Columbia, nor do I mean to obtrude the
CaroUna College into undue prominence, but ask only for its claims to
be considered along side of the others. S. H. Browne.

IFrom the North- CaroUna Advocate, May 23.]
Greensboro' Female College.

The annual examination and commencement of this institution took
place last week.

Rev. T. G. Lowe preached the valedictory sermon before the graduat-
ing class on Tuesday evening. As usual, he enchained the attention of
a large audience, and eloquently set forth the sacred lessons of divine
truth.

On Tuesday and the forenoon of Wednesday, the classes were sub-
jected to a searching public examination. We learn from disinterested
and competent persons, who witnessed it all from beginning to end, that
the result was in the highest degree satisfactory.

At the close of the examination on Wednesday, Miss Ogborne, on
behalf of the graduating class, presented President Jones with a silver
goblet. On receiving it, he responded in terms of grateful regard. It
was a pleasant surprise to him and to the audience.

We arrived on Wednesday afternoon, in time to hear the address to
the Literary Societies by George Davis, Esq., of Wilmington.

We are at a loss how to speak of this address, so as to express the
views of those who heard it, and, at the same time, be credited by those
who did not. We can only say, it was the most perfect production in
matter, style, and delivery, which any literary festival for years has
elicited. And what added to its merit was Mr. Davi,?' manifest uncon-
sciousness that it had any merit at all. We sincerely hope the friends
of the College may succeed in inducing him to consent to its publica-
tion.

At night a delightful concert manifested the taste, skill, and proficienov
in music to which the pupils had attained under the instructions of Pro
feasor Wolle.

134 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS,

Next morning the commencement exercises were of unusual interest

Seventeen young ladies received diplomas, many of whom by diUgence
and capacity had won the first honor.

The compositions read by the graduating class were all good, and
several of them had a high degree of literary merit. One as a speci-
men, is published on the first page, by permission of the friends of the
writer.

The Salutatory Address was delivered by Miss Staten. As we lis-
tened to the liquid Latin flowing from her lips, we thought of old John
Milton's sneer about one tongue being enough for a woman, and we
thought, moreover, that if his wife had been able to have scolded him in
an unknown tongue, in this relief he would have discovered the fallacy
of his sneer.

The Valedictory Address, eloquent and affecting, was delivered by
Miss Moody.

President Jones conferred the degrees, by handing each young lady a
diploma, accompanied by a Bible. He then addressed them for half an
hour in language of eloquence and pathos, enforcing upon their minds
the duties and responsibilities of coming life.

This deeply interesting scene was closed with appropriate religious
exercises.

[IVom the K 0. Advocate, May 31,]
Franklin Female College,

We learn from our exchanges, that Rev. D. J. Allen has been elected
President of this flourishing institution at Holly Springs, Mississippi.

Ckawfoed Institute, Arkansas,

The Rev. J. S. McAlister, writing to the If. 0. Christian Advocate^
says of the Crawford Institute :

"Since I assumed the agency of the Institute, $12,567.50 have been
subscribed, and new subscriptions are being added daily.

" Col. Alfred Wallace, a worthy member of our Church, and a bene-
volent man, dying, left a considerable sum to the Institute as a perma-
nent endowment, which places it at once beyond a doubt of its success
and perpetuity. Not long since, a beggar, a poor pensioner upon the
munificence of others, now an almoner of charity, the Crawford Insti-
tute commences a career of usefulness to our people in education, morals,
and religion.

Raleigh Female Seminary, N, C.

The North- Carolina Advocate says: "On Monday evening, (June
2,) the sermon to the young ladies was preached by Rev. Dr. Carter, of
Louisburg. The Doctor remarked in setting out, that he came not to
teach them the philosophy and science of man, but to teach them the
science of salvation. He then proceeded to present to them, in a clear,
able, and masterly manner, the plan of salvation. His heart warmed as
he advanced with his theme, and with it he warmed the hearts of his

RANDOLPH MACON COLLEGE, VA. 135

audience before he concluded. On Tuesday evening, Kev. H. T. Hud-
son delivered the Literary Address. This was a chaste, elegant produc-
tion, delivered in a pleasant, attractive manner. Many of his thoughts
were not only well conceived but eloquently expressed.

GoLDSBORO Female College, N. C.

S. E. S., in The North- Carolma Advocate, gives an account of the
" Commencement," from which we exti-act :

"On Tuesday night, the 3d of June, the Kev. Mr. Frost, of Wilming-
ton, preached the annual sermon. It was just such a discourse as that
excellent and able man might be expected to deliver ; clear, practical,
and powerful. Its analysis was exceedingly clear, and the hortitory
portion full of what the clergy call unction. It did the old people good
to hear that sermon to the young.

"John S. Long, Esq., of Washington, delivered the Annual Literary
Address, on Wednesday afternoon. His theme was, ' The Education of
Woman the true American Policy.' This was not so much an address
as an oration. It was cogent in its reasonings and afRuent in its illus-
trations. Many of the passages were of fine classical finish. As a lite-
rary production, it stands among the first in its department.

" The concert on Wednesday night was crowded. It had the beauty
of not being tedious. Every one, we believe, was pleased. Some of
the pieces were encored, and all passed off delightfully.

" A number of compositions enlivened the exercises with their bril-
liancy, and increased the interest with the beauties of style.

" We understand the next session opens on the 25th of July, with no
change in the faculty, which still continues under the able presidency
of Dr. Morgan CJoss. This gentleman is undoubtedly one of the very
best teachers in the land, and the College has thriven greatly under his
presidency. He enters the new building at the opening of the next ses-
sion. This is a spacious and elegant edifice, an ornament to the town
and a credit to the State."

Randolph Macon College, Va.

" On Wednesday, the literary societies were addressed by the Rev.
Leonidas Rosser, A.M., of the Virginia Conference. The address was
of a highly intellectual character, rich in style, sound in sentiment,
copious in classical illustration, and full of valuable suggestions as to the
formation of character, and the proper conduct of life. It was received
with great satisfaction by all who had the pleasure of hearing it ; and,
if he yields to the request to publish it, will be read, no doubt, by his
numerous friends, witli equal pleasure.

" We did not hear the address of Mr. Elder, of Lunenburg county,
Va., before the Society of Alumni, on the afternoon of the same day.
Indisposition confined us to the house, and deprived us of the oppor-
tunity. We heard it well spoken of by several persons.

" Thursday belonged to the graduates and the representatives of the
literary societies. They used it well, and greatly to the entertainment
of the crowded assembly. We do not recollect ever to have heard a

136 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

series of addresses more intellectual in character, purer in style, or more
effectively delivered.

" The pubhc exercises of the commencement passed off finely ; and
elevated the College to a higher place in the affections and confidence
of its friends.

"In the Board of Trustees a considerable amount of business was
transacted. There was a very large attendance of the members present,
and their work was done promptly and harmoniously. The Rev. Wm.
Closs, of the N. C. Conference, resigned his office as trustee. The Rev.
Messrs. P. "W. Archer, N. F. Reid, and J. P. Moore, of the same Con-
ference, and L. Rosser, of the Virginia Conference, were elected mem-
bers of the Board. At an early stage of the proceedings. Dr. Smith, in
a letter to the Board, formally tendered his resignation as President of
the CoUege."

The above is from the Richmond Advocate. We learn that, after dis-
cussion, a majority of the trustees were not in favor of receiving the re-
signation, and it was withdrawn.

Warreston Female College, N. C.

The Rev. A. Weaver writes to the N. C. Chrintian Advocate in re-
gard to the commencement at this institution :

" I was truly gratified to see so rnuch attention paid to the soUd
branches of education. The Report of the Faculty on each student's
grade of scholarship was in harmony with the opinions above ex-
pressed.

" A magnificent array of various kinds of painting, wax-work, em-
broidery, etc., decorated the walls, as specimens of the fine arts.

" On Tuesday night, the Rev. J. C. Granberry, of the Virginia Con-
ference, delivered the annual sermon. His text was Pro v. 3:17; his
theme, ' the jyleasantness and ^^eaee of wisdom's ways.' The discourse
was characterized by profound analysis, sound theology, beautiful
figures, and forcible delivery.

" The concert on Wednesday night was entertaining and refreshing.
The young ladies performed their parts with ease and gracefulness. In-
strumental music possesses a delightful charm ; but the sweetest notes
rise from Nature's vocal strings, tuned and strung by Nature's God.
The concert did honor to the professor in this department. The public
wiU sustain me when I say that Prof. Kehr stands at the head of his
profession.

The literary address of Mr. Bachelor, of Warren, was in good taste,
abounding in large views of female character and responsibihty, and
was delivered in beautifully rounded periods.

The short address of the President to the classes was truly eloquent.

[From the S. C. Advocate.^

Columbia Female College,

laying the corner-stone.

It was intended to celebrate this event in a public way, by the de-
livery of an address, etc., but the work progressed to a point which

MARSHALL INSTSTLTE, MISS. 137

rendered it absolutely necessary that it should be laid. The weather
became exceedingly hot. It would have been impossible almost to have
arranged conveniences for an audience at the college buildin"-, and seve-
ral who would have taken great interest on the occasion "and whose
presence would have given much interest to it, were absent, either en
business, or travelhng for health. In view of all these things, the Exe-
cutive Committee concluded, without any of the usual displaj-s on occa-
sions of that sort, to put in the corner-s"tone, and let the work go on
So on Tuesday morning, the 1st day of July, the Committee and a few
of the citizens met at the college building, and laid it.

It is a block of granite some two feet square, about one foot thick
with a place cut out of the centre to receive a glass box, moulded in
New-lork, expressly for the purpose, about ten inches square, and
seven or eight deep, with a cover ground to fit, and make it, as near as
possible, air-tight. In this were placed some books, periodicals, of
which the following is a correct list :

A paper containing the following record :

"The corner-stone of ' Columbia Female Collesre' is laid this day the
first day of July, A.D. 1856. Franklin Pierce, President of the United
^'^*fs; Ja^es H. Adams, Governor of the State of South-Carolina;
K. F. W. Allston, President of the Senate ; James Simons, Speaker of
the House of Representatives ; Edward J. Arthur, Mayor of the city of
Columbia. G. E. Walker, Architect ; Clark Waring, Builder."

There was added : a copy of the charter of the CoUege, containin'^
the names of all the trustees ; of the Discipline of the M. E Church"
South ; of each of the city papers; of the Sunday-School Visitor; of
the Southern, Nashville, and Richmond Cliristian Advocate; of the
Home Circle, with a drawing of HuntsviUe Female College ; of the
minutes of last session of the South-Carolina Annual Conference A
paper showing that the first meeting held in reference to the Colleo-e
took place in the old Sunday-school room on Washington sti-eet on
Monday evening, the 9th of January, 1854.

After depositing these documents, cementing the glass cover over
them, and putting the corner-stone to its proper and final resting-place
a very appropriate, solemn, and impressive prayer was offered by the
Rev. N. Talley. "^

Thus closed the unostentatious ceremony of laying the corner-stone
of an institution of learning which is to train many of the daughters of
our country, who are to be the architects of the great social "fabric in
which the present and future generations are to dwell.

c. murchison.

Marshall Institute, Miss.

We learn from the Memphis papers that the building of the Marshall
Female Institute, in Marshall county. Miss., was destroyed by fire on
the night of the 27th ult, together with the books of the youno- ladies
and the demonstrating apparatus of the school. The Memphis W/iio
S3.ys •

"Fortunately, the boarding-house was situated about one hundred
yards distant and entirely escaped the conflagration, otherwise the loss
ol iile among the students might have been terrible. The institute was

138 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

under the control of Rev. Mr. Douglass, upon whom the loss falls heavy.
The building was insured in the Memphis Insurance Company for
$5000. The fire took place at twelve o'clock at night, and was, with-
out doubt, the work of an incendiary. We understand that the citizens
are already subscribing liberally to rebuild the institute."

To the above, we add the following, from the H'ashville Advocate:
"This popular school, located in Marshall county, Miss., and patron-
ized by the Memphis Conference, has been in successful operation for
several years, under the supervision of the Rev. J. E. Douglass. Mr.
Douglass has resigned, and the Rev. Samuel W. Speer, D.D., has been
elected to fill his place. Dr. Speer is an experienced teacher, having for
many years conducted a female academy in Natchez, Miss.

"The academy at Marshall was consumed a short time since by fire ;
but we learn, by a gentleman just from the institute, that it will be re-
built immediately. In addition to the insurance, we are informed that
liberal subscriptions are being made, so that there will be ample means
to rebuild on a much larger and more convenient scale. The boarding-
house, and all the other buildings, save the main edifice, containing re-
citation rooms, escaped. We learn that the next session will open
September loth. Success to Marshall !"

{^lYom the Richmond Advocate, Jidy 17.]
Female Collegiate Institute.

"We had the pleasure of attending the annual commencement at the
Institute during the past week. The exercises were of a very interesting
character. A large crowd of visitors were present on both days, and by
their intelligent appreciation, added materially to the interest of the oc-
casion. The concert on the first day aflforded a delightful " concord of

sweet sounds."

*******

We are happy to state that the Institute is in circumstances of great
prosperity, with the promise of a briUiant career in the future years of
its history. There were one hundred and fifty-eight pupils in attend-
ance during the session just closed ; and there will probably be a larger
number present at the fall session. Twelve young ladies were gradu-
ated in the English and classical courses. The examinations preceding
the commencement were highly creditable to the faculty and students,
showing thoroughness in teaching, and industry and dUigence in learn-
ing. The graduating essays were well written, rich in sentiment, and
clear and forcible in expression. The session has been one of great
harmony and prosperity.

[Prom the Nashville Advocate.]

Madison Female College.

The commencement sermon was preached on Sunday, the 6th, by the
Rev. J. B. McFerrin, D.D., of Nashville, Tenn., fi-om Phihppians 3 : 8.
The limits of this report will not permit us to notice at length this able

WESLETAN FEMALE COLLEGE, GA. 139

discourse as it merits. It was a clear and eloquent exposition of the
subject of the text, and produced a profound impression upon the large
congregation convened in the chapel.

On Thursday, the 10th, commencement day, the graduating class
read original compositions to a very large and intelligent audience.
The essays of the young ladies were replete with striking thoughts,
most aptly and beautifully expressed. AH were well written, and the
proficiency of the class reflected great credit on the professor in belles
lettres. After the reading of the compositions, President Echols con-
ferred diplomas upon the graduating class, accompanied with one of the
most feeling and eloquent addresses we ever listened to. We trust the
young ladies will heed and profit by his kind counsels.

At four o'clock P.M., Bishop George F. Pierce addressed a large and
intelligent audience upon the subject of female education. It was a
masterly effort, triumphantly vindicating the capacity of woman to re-
ceive a liberal education, and utterly refuting the stale and common ob-
jections urged against the present system of education pursued in our
female colleges. The address will, no doubt, be published, and we
therefore forbear a more extended notice of it.

Thus has closed the seventh annual commencement of Madison Fe-
male College ; and we are assured by those who know, it has never
been equalled by any that has preceded it.

[JJ^om the S. G. AivocaAe^ July 24.]

Wesleyan Female College, Ga.

The visiting committee in attendance upon the annual examination
and commencement of the Wesleyan Female CoUege, take great pleas-
ure in submitting to its patrons and friends the following statement of
the condition and prospects of the institution.

The collegiate year just closed has been one of mingled prosperity and
trial. The patronage of the institution has been the largest ever in at-
tendance — the total for the year amounting to 177. It is proper to
state also, that the CoU-ege was visited during the spring and summer
with the epidemic of measles, which prevailed almost universally in
Georgia. Exaggerated reports have been circulated, and needless ap-
prehensions cherished with reference to the College. We state posi-
tively that no other sickness besides measles has prevailed ; that this is
now past, and the institution enjoying its accustomed health.

The catalogue reports the corps of instruction complete, consisting of
eleven professors and teachers, including the president. The facilities
of instruction are amply sufficient, while the uniform decorum of the
students, the familiarity of intercourse between themselves and faculty,
and their highly creditable examination and exhibition, attest their own
proficiency and the faithfulness of their instructors.

While it would be invidious to discriminate, it is but justice to the

institution to state, that the examination of classes on Monday and

Tuesday was, without an exception, in the highest degree satisfactory.
^ ii. -^ if- if. * ■*

Wednesday and Thursday were consumed in the commencement ex-
ercises of the senior cla-ss. Eighteen young ladies were ^railuut'.-d, '<f

140 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

■whom sixteen appeared before the audience with compositions. The
whole class acquitted themselves with honor, and received from the
audience unmistakable testimonials of approval.

The exercises concluded with an address from Hon. E. A. Nisbet. It
was conceived and delivered in his happiest style.

Thus closed the seventeenth annual commencement of the "Wesleyan
Female College. Long may it continue its career of honorable useful-
ness, and every succeeding return exhibit increasing prosperity and
success.

[From the N. 0. Advocate, Aug. 2.]
Centenary Institute, Alabama.

Our readers are aware that a Society of the Alabama Conference edu
Gates young men who have been called to the ministry. They have
nine or ten receiving the benefits of 'education and primary training. A
correspondent says :

Brother McTyeire : There were several things at Summerfield, not
coming properly within notice of the Examining Committee, that are,
nevertheless, worthy of notice. I hope some one will give you an
account of the "annual class-meeting." It is worthy of a chronicler —
ought to have a place in the history of modern Methodism.

But I am seated to give you an account of another scene. During
the year there have been connected with the institution six licentiates
and three candidates for the ministry. Our excellent Brother Pitts had
taken much pains to teach them. This was found a pleasant and pro-
fitable task for both teacher and pupils. Should we put theology
under ban, and carefully exclude it from the " school of the prophets" ?
Ought we to ? The class, to manifest their appreciation of his labors,
presented him, through Bishop Andrew, a fine family Bible. The
Bishop's talk was rich and touching. He heartily indorsed the effort to
teach those intending to enter the ministry — thought the gift the most
appropriate the class could have selected for the occasion — commended
Brother Pitts, and exhorted the class as he would have done at Confer-
ence.

Brother Pitts receiving the book, promised to preach its doctrines in
simplicity — to have all the labors of the school-room hallowed by it —
night and morning to gather his family around it with renewed thank-
fulness, to inquire the way of the Lord and find the "golden seed which
yieldeth angels food."

[From the S. C. Advocate, Aug. T.]
WoFFORD College Commencement.

Commencement Day — The Inaugurals — The First Graduate — The Ser-
mons — The Female College — College Buildings — A Plea for "Wofford.

The 16th of July will be a memorable day in the history of this In-
stitution, as the date of its first commencement and the starting point
of its career. The morning was bright, and the spacious college chapel
was crowded at an early hour. Glance around and you will find present

WOFFOKD COLLEGK COMMENCEMENT. 141

one fifth of the S. C. Conference — several with the imperial D.D., re-
presentatives from Charleston, Columbia, Camden, Greenville, Laurens,
and the surrounding districts, and last but not least, a profusion of the
beautiful flowers that cluster around Spartanburg. A procession is
formed in front of the President's house, moves to the chapel, and en-
ters, led by the faculty and trustees. The exercises are opened with
prayer by the Rev. Dr. Cross; after which Professor Du Pre reads an
able inaugural on the science of Geology— which is connected with his
department. The Professor takes a bold but Christian view of the sub-
jects suggested by his theme, and handles them with the address of!
one accustomed to grapple with abstruse points ; yet you can but ad-
mire how admirably the barren rocks crop out here and there, covered
with the freshness and beauty of elegant diction and poetic thought.
Luther's grand old hymn, "Before Jehovah's awful throne," sung with
spirit by the audience, gives a graceful finale to the address.

The Rev. Dr. Whitefoord Smith now follows with an admirable
paper on Polite Letters, in which he strenuously urges the importance
of placing our Colleges in the advance ground of grammar schools and
primary departments. The Doctor was never more happy ; with mel-
lifluous language and glowing pathos, he ably advocates the claims of his
chair, and bespeaks the pubUc approval of the high standard assumed
by the College.

President Wightman now announces that Mr. Samuel Dibble, of
Charleston, will deliver a graduating address on " Genius." This is
clear, comprehensive, and calmly delivered, after which he pronounces
a short but pathetic valedictory, which draws tears from the eyes of the
old men who now see the first-born of the College going forth with
honor to himself and his Alma Mater. The President, after an elegant
Latin valedictory, delivers to him his diploma, and the exercises, cha-
racterized throughout with dignity and interest, are closed with the
benediction by the Rev. H. A. 0. Walker. May each returning com-
mencement send forth a noble band,

" Who round life's bright Olympic goal
Delight the glowing wheel to roll,
Boldly to snatch the illustrious prize
That lifts earth's masters to the skies."

On the precedmg Sabbath, the Rev. Dr. Cross delivered the com-
mencement sermon to a large and intelligent audience strung to its
highest pitch of expectation. The Doctor with a master grasp upon his
subject, gathered up and presented in one scope a world of thought
chafed with gold, and opened views of celestial charity, dazzling and
dark with excessive light. It was the product of a master hand, alike
honorable to the head and heart.

At night, the Rev. Dr. Hanner, of Tenn., delivered an eloquent and
impressive discourse before the young ladies of the Female College.
The sermon was marked with a fine philosophical and practical view of
the atonement in its application to the heart and the development of
character. This institution, under the judicious management of Presi-
dent Tucker, has already taken a position to warrant the highest expect-
ation. The examination and concert passed off with high credit to the
young ladies and their insti'uctors.

142 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

Woflford College has sprung into existence, and in one year taken
rank alongside the first institutions in the Southern States. The suite
of buildings, six in number, crowns a commanding site to the north of
the town, and gives an imposing prospect of the surrounding country.
The group is arranged in the form of a crescent ; th ^President's house
fills one horn ; the main building, 2S0 feet long, with two massive towers
running up 100 feet, occupies the centre; and the houses of the profes-
sors complete the semi-circle. The entire suite is built of brick, com-
bining all the airy elegance and substantial proportions peculiar to Ital-
ian architecture. As you enter the town from the south the group
presents an imposing appearance, standing out from a deep back-ground
of evergreens and the still remote peaks of the Blue Ridge, sweeping in
billowy outUne along the horizon.

The College is conducted on the non-resident plan. The students are
broken up into smaU numbers and distributed throughout the town.
Thus, the social and pastoral influences of home are brought to the aid
of college discipline and to the formation of character softened by mi-
banity and preserved by virtue. The gentlemanly deportment of the
students shows how admirably the plan has worked. The College pos-
sesses many advantages from its location in one of the most flourishing
and rapidly growing towns in the St:ite, within sight of the mountains
and within ride of many mineral springs ; and it possesses a salubrious
climate and a class of citizens known for their hospitality intelligence,
and piety. - J. T. W.

[From the Southern C. Advocate, Aug. 2.]

Dedication at Olin High School.

Me. Editor: Events of historic character ought to find their way into
the current news of the times, arid I doubt not they will be cheerfully
received by you, and noticed by your liberal readers. The 23d July
was the day set apart by the trustees of the High School at Olin,
(formerly New Institute,) to dedicate to education and religion their
spacious and elegant building, which the spirit and energy of the friends
of education have erected in the north-east part of Iredell Co., N. C.

The dedication sermon was preached by Rev. R. T. Heflin, of the
N. C. Conference, to an immense audience, filling the large chapel of
the building. This sermon was a noble composition, worthy of the
man and the occasion. In spirit and conception, it was truly catholic,
and administered to bigotry and intolerance a merited rebuke. His
main position was, that faith in Christ Jesus constitutes the great bond
of tmion in the brotherhood of Cliristianity, and where this exists and
its fruits are seen, we have no authority to create barriers on questions
of " doubtful disputations." I shall attempt no analysis of the sermon,
but wish its pure sentiments were engraven upon every heart, and that
the author may long live to instruct and delight other audiences, as he
did us on that interesting occasion.

At the close of the sermon. President Lander arose and addressed
Dr. C. F. Deems in behalf of the trustees of the school, and requested
him to dedicate the building to education and virtue. Dr. Deems' brief
address in reply was characterized by some bright flashes of true elo-

DEDICATION AT OLIN HIGH SCHOOL. 143

quence. The {^rand thoughts leaping forth in the resplendent and beau-
tiful imagery of his language, swayed the vast assembly as winds the
waving grain. Behind him on the rostrum, sat the venerable James
Patterson, who has been a preacher of the Gospel seventy years, has
preached through two generations, and is now a counsellor for the third,
He turned to Father Patterson and addressed him in a strain congratu-
latory of his preservation to see what he then saw, and alluding to the
labors of the past, the results of the present, and the prospects of the
future. This incident was one of the most beautiful and touching ex-
hibitions I ever saw given by any orator from an unforeseen occurrence.
Nothing could have exceeded the pleasure afibrded the audience by this
worthy recognition of meritorious services rendered to the Church and
the world, by one of the noblest survivors of the early planters of Me-
thodism in Virginia, North and South-Carolina.

In the afternoon Rev. S. M. Frost, of the N. C. Conference, preached
a sermon mainly to the young men. It was a capital sermon, and cal-
culated to do much good. It was clear, impressive, and instructive.

At night Mr, Heflin preached again with great liberty and pleasing
effect. So passed the 23 d at Olin. The large attendance was delighted
and we instructed.

On Thursday, the 24th, the Rev. Dr. Deems delivered an address,
filled with rich and stirring thoughts. The main subject was founded
on that remarkable passage of the Bible, "Let us make man." This
address was worthy of an audience of philosophers, both for the depth
of thought and the beauty of language. "Apples of gold in pictures
of silver," were the treasures of thought and beauty in this address.
Dr. Deems is equally at home in the deep thoughts that divide the phi-
losophic and religious world, or in the domain of poetry and fancy. The
errors of pantheism, the importance of man in the scale of being, his
relation to things material, to God, to eternity — the truth harmonious
and consistent with itself, were some of the topics presented in brilliant
language. The audience refused to disperse without another address.
The Rev. "Wm. Barringer preached an excellent sermon, full of pure
Gospel truth. This was a high occasion for this place. This school is the
most remarkable in the history of the schools of the State. It was begun
with a respectable academy four years ago, and soon one academy was
found inadequate, and another was consti'ucted, and both were soon filled.
It then became evident that "Western North-Carolina needed and would
sustain this school, and its liberal population have put up one of the
best and most convenient buildings in the State for school purposes.
The school has now opened, under Mr. S. Lander, as Principal, with
competent assistants. The history of schools in the South hardly fur-
nishes a parallel to this in the growth of the school and its dependent
interests. Quite a respectable village has grown up from it ; and I may
say, this school bids fair to accomplish much for Western Carolina. It
is now prepared to receive any number of scholars.

The Rev. B. Clegg, formerly teacher, now agent for the trustees, is
travelling in different parts of the State. A Friend.

144 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

{From the New- Orleans Advocate, Aug. 9.]
Centenary College Commencement.

A friend who had the pleasure of attending, makes a glowing report
to us of the occasion on the 29th and 30th ult Having received no let-
ter as yet, we make up a brief account from other sources.

Rev. C. K. Marshall preached the commencement sermon in the ab-
sence of Dr. Keener, Sunday, 11 A.M., and also at night. Mr. Sigur,
who was expected to deliver the address to the Literary Societies — was
not present, much to the disappointment of a vast and briUiant assem-
bly. In the absence of Mr. King, R. Nugent, Esq., delivered the addi'ess
to the Alumni, which is well spoken of

"Wednesday the ceremony of laying the corner-stone of the centre
building of the college began about 12 o'clock, in the presence of a large
concourse. The brick work of this handsome building has already
been completed up to the second story. A place was, however, re-
served for the corner-stone, in the south-west corner, some twenty feet
from the foundation, where the beautiful block, with its treasures in-
closed, now stands out conspicuously.

This ceremony was conducted in the best style by Rev. C. K. Mar-
shall, His speech was written, and occupied an hour and a quarter in
delivery. We hope to see it published. But a higher honor than mak-
ing a fine speech awaited him — it was 'doing a fine thing. The sub-
scription following amounted to between twenty-three and twenty-four
thousand dollars. Before the day closed the amount was carried up to
twenty-five thousand dollars. This, with the sum in hand, wiU build
and furnish.

The music from the students' amateur band is said to have been ex-
cellent, as it always is.

The following graduated, a class of nineteen : T. W. Compton, (first
honor,) Miss. ; T. P. Clinton, (first honor,) La. ; J. C. StaflEbrd, Miss. ;
J. W. Barrow, Ala. ; J. S. Billiu, La. ; K. A. Cross, La. ; T. P. Caillouet,
La. ; R. S. Dunn, A. F. Drake, Miss. ; James M. Fly, Miss. ; James E.
Gibson, Mo. ; J. C. Griffith, La. ; W. H. Knight, La. ; G. S. Mayo, La. ;
Robert J. Perkins, La. ; Chas. M. Pilcher, La. ; Wm. G. Richardson,
La. ; J. H. Brigham, La. ; J. B. Tarlton, La.

Central College, Mo.

Li the St. Louis Advocate, Aug. 14, the Rev. "W. M. Pinckard makes
the following proposition :

That five persons be found who will give five thousand dollars each
to the endowment fund of Central College, payable as may be agreed
between the donors and the curators, upon the following conditions.

1. A sum shall be raised sufficient, when added to the amount here
proposed to be raised, to make the endowment of the college $50,000.

2. The college building shall be completed and paid for, or a sum suf-
ficient to complete and pay for said building shall be raised by the 1st
day of July, 1857.

NORMAL COLLEGE. 145

3. Each of these donors shall have the privilege of giving name to
a professorship in the college, and be entitled to the rights of scholar-
ship, provided for in the plan of the college.

4. This proposition to stand open until the 1st of July, 1857, unless
mot before that date.

And now, are there not five persons in Missouri, willing to pay five
thousand dollars apiece, to secure a Methodist college, with first-rate
buildings — out of debt — with an endowment of fifty thousand dollars ?

Only let this proposition be met by those who are able to meet it,
and the work will be done.

Persons desiring further information will please address Rev. W. M.
Prottsman, Lexington.

{From tlie North- Carolina Advocate.']

GoLDSBORO Female College.

We are pleased to to learn that the prospects of this institution are
quite flattering. A gentleman who spent a few days last week in Golds-
boro' informs us that the new college building is completed and presents
a beautiful appearance. It is a large brick building, can accommodate
one hundred pupils, and is really an honor to that enterprising commu-
nity. Our informant also states, that the success of the present session
is beyond the most sanguine expectations of the friends of the college.
Young ladies were flocking in almost every day, and a very large attend-
ance is now certain. Prof Nelson is managing the school for the pre-
sent, and gives universal satisfaction. Rev. S. M. Frost, the president
elect, will take charge of the Institution the first of October, when an-
other large accession of pupils may be expected. Let our friends in the
eastern counties send on their daughters.

•'Q'^

Greensboro' Female College.

This eminently valuable Institution is still in the ascendant. We be-
lieve, if we recollect correctly, it has a larger number of boarders and
students than at any former period. The new building is going up
rapidly. When this is completed, we suppose 200 boarders can be ac-
commodated, and its arrangements will be complete for all the purposes
of a solid, thorough, and elegant education. The age of the institution,
its systematic regulations, course of study, and its experienced and able
Faculty, place it in the lead of all the female colleges of the South.

[From North- Carolina Adv., Nov. 28.]
Normal College.

The Trustees of Normal College made the following proposition to
the Conference at Greensboro' :

" If the Conference will authorize and request the Trustees of Norm.il
College to raise by donations $25,000, ten thousand of which is to be

146 COLLEGES Airo SCHOOLS.

expended in paying present debts, and fifteen thousand in erecting other
necessary buildings, we will do as follows :

" 1. We will convey the lands and property now belonging to the Col-
lege, to the Trustees of Normal College in trust for such uses and pur-
poses as this Conference may specify.

" 2. The Conference shall make all nominations to fill vacancies in the
Board of Trustees.

" 3. The Conference shall appoint a Board of Visitors, which Board
shall have equal power with Trustees, in making rules and regulations
for the internal government of the College, and shall approve all appoint-
ments in the Faculty before they are valid.

" Now, if the Conference will adopt the College upon these conditions,
we will give a proper guarantee to execute the deed of conveyance so
soon as our debt to the Literary Board is paid ; and we will act fully
upon every other item, from the time of adoption by the Conference."

(Signed) B. Craven, Pre».

After a very full discussion, the Conference, with great unanimity,
accepted the offer of Normal College by passing the following resolu-
tions :

'''■ Resolved^ 1st, That we accept the proposition fi-om Normal College.

^^Hesolved, 2d, Thatwe nominate five Trustees to fill present vacancies;
and also, that we appoint a Board of five visitors, which Board shall
see that the Trustees of Normal College faithfully execute their proposi-
tion."

In accordance with this action, C. P. Deems, R. T. Heflin, D. I>.
Nicholson, N. H. D. Wilson and Wm. Barringcr, were severally nomi-
nated by the Conference, as Trustees of the College to fill vacancies.

A Board of Visitors was also appointed by the Conference, whose
duties and prerogatives are defined in the terms of agreement, as speci-
fied above. We have not now the names of the members of this Board ;
but win give them when pubUshed by the Secretary of Conference. It
wiU thus be seen :

1. That the North-Carolina Conference has a college of its own.

2. That N. C. Conference has fuU power and control over this College
so as to be able to place it upon a basis which will command the confid-
ence of the whole Church, and the pubUc at large.

We have not time or space to say more now, but will before long give
the reasons and expectations. which have influenced the Conference to
adopt Nonnal College.

[From the same paper.]
Olin High ScnooL.

This Institution has been doing a good work for the cause of educa-
tion in Western North-Carolina.

At the late session of our Conference the following preamble and
resolutions were passed with unanimity : " AV"hereas, the North-Caro-
lina Conference desires to establish a male seminary of learning, of high
grade, west of the Yadkin ; and whereas, the Trustees of Olin High
School have made a tender of that School to the Conference : therefore,

" Resolved, 1st, That we accept the school, and heartily recommend it

EUTERSVILLE AND 1X8 SCHOOLS. 14 7

to the patronage of our people, and its agent, Rev. B. Clcgg, to the con-
fidence and liberality of our members, and of the public at large.

" Resolved, 2d, That the Board of Trustees are hereby authorized to
procure means to any extent that they may be enabled to do, in order
to enlarge the capacity and usefulness of the school, until it shall have
reached the highest grade of literary institutions, without involving the
Conference in any pecuniary responsibiUty."

[From the Texas Advocate, Dec. 13.]

RUTERSVILLE AND ITS SCHOOLS.

In 1838, a company of ten gentlemen, consisting of R. Alexander, A.
P. Manley, W. P. Smith, F. W. Hubert, 0. B. Howard, F. Lewis, L. P.
Rucker, J. W. Le Master, R. Chappell, and J. Rabb, purchased of Frank-
lin Lewis a league of land, situated near the centre of Fayette county,
six miles east of La Grange, and divided it into lots, varying in size from
a half acre to 80 acres, so as to pleasantly domiciliate a large number of
good citizens, who might take a lively interest in building up and sus-
taining such schools as might prove a blessing to the then young but
rising repubHc of Texas. One of the happy provisions was, that ardent
spirits and gambling, (at that early period the bane of society,) were to
have no abiding place on the League.

This embryo seat of letters, in honor to the memory of that able and
learned divine. Rev. Martin Ruter, D.D., who had fallen a martyr in the
glorious cause of spreading the pure gospel of the Son of God, as super-
intendent of the first Methodist mission in Texas, was, by unanimous
consent of the company, named Rutersville. The association, having
donated the sites, by an act of the Congress of 1839, a male and female
college having been chartered, the Rev. C. Richardson, A.M., was called
to preside over the former, and Mrs. Martha C. Richardson, his wife,
over the latter. During their administrations these institutions were
sometimes visited by the sunshine of prosperity and at other times by
the clouds of adversity.

Their successors were that able and learned educator, Dr. William
Plalsey, now President of Soule University, and his accomplished lady,
Mrs. Mary C. Halsey, now joint principal with her worthy and learned
brother, Ulysses Chapman, A.M., of Chappell Hill Female College.
Under able administration for a series of years, the Rutersville schools
had more sunshine and fewer clouds.

The Legislature, at the late session, by an amendment of charters,
having consolidated the Rutersville College, the Texas Monumental Cor-
poration, and the Texas Military Institute into one patriotic and educa-
tional enterprise, under the appropriate name of the " Texas Monumental
and Military Institute," appointed an able Board of sixteen Trustees,
who confirmed a contract with Col. C. G. Forshey, A.M., to superintend
said Institute for the next seven years.

Rutersville, proverbial for its healthful climate, romantic scenery, and
refined society, is happily situated to accommodate students of both
sexes, all ages, and eveiy degree of proficiency. The Institute, having
opened its session on the first of October, is in succcs^sful operation,

148 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

with more than 50 cadets, from the different parts of the State ; and
the number is still being augmented almost every day, under the in-
struction of Col. Forshey, whose fame as a teacher of high order is not
limited to the bounds of our own State ; aided by Maj. B. Timmons, a
graduate of the Kentucky Military Institute. The Steward's Hall is
. under the superintendence of Rev. Dr. Harrison and his excellent lady.
The Female College, some 800 yards from the Institute, is under the
julnt superintendence of Misses Forbes and Moore — young ladies of
high literary attainments, and great moral worth. The department of
instrumental and vocal music is conducted by Prof Shultz. The board-
ing-house is under the management of the amiable consort of Rev. H.
S. Thrall. This school is in a highly prosperous state.

The Rutersville Academy, or preparatory department, is taught half
a mile from the Institute, by Prof. Penn, a gentleman of suitable literary
and governing abilities.

Boarding-house is kept by the excellent lady of Rev. D. Morse. This
school is likewise prospering.

By the consolidation of the Texas Monumental Corporation, the
Rutersville College and the Military Institute, the erection of a living
and a speaking monument in honor of the fallen heroes of Texas, will
no longer be problematical. Education, patriotism, and high moral
virtue will be so combined as to render Rutersville what its founders
had ardently desired, a seat of learning jof high order, and one that wiU
prove a signal blessing to thousands of juveniles in the " sunny South."
The refined society of Rutersville is adorned by being the residence of
two of our talented and energetic Presiding Elders, Rev. D. Morse, and
Rev. H. S. Thrall — the former of the Galveston District — each of whom
wiU present a handsome increase within the bounds of his respective
charge to the approaching Annual Conference.

[From the Texas Advocate, Dec. 27.]
A Metropolitan Methodist University.

Ought not the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, to establish at
Nashville a central educational institution ? Our Publishing House is
there ; our Bishops meet there annually ; our Missionary Board is lo-
cated there ; our Book Editor, Tract Agent, and Missionary Secretary
are there ; our Quarterly, our Monthly, our central Weekly, and our
Child's Paper are all published there. Every thing of a general nature
ought to be there. Each would be an advantage to the other. The
importance of the place will have much to do in the ultimate success of
the Publishing House, and in the successful establishment of a South-
ern literature. The matter of place is essentially connected with the
success of our general periodicals.

The only question is, as to whether a University could be classed
among our central denominational in.stitutions. For ourselves we have
no doubt on this point. The subject, we think, is worthy of thought.
Let it be regarded without sectionalism, and with an eye single to the
good of the cause. Let the next Educational Convention take it into
consideration. In proportion as such things are palpably connected

EDUCATION INSTITUTE. 149

with the good of the whole Church, will men increase in their liberality
toward it. We have long thought of it, and have frequently inter-
changed views with friends on the subject ; but we have, hitherto, felt
a diffidence as to publishing ovu- opinions.

The Education Institute, of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.

The Educational Convention, suggested by the General Conference in
Columbus, Ga., and called by the Tennessee Conference at its last ses-
sion, met on the 21st and continued its deliberations diu-ing three days
—having adjourned to-night. The occasion brought together a pretty
large number of the prominent educators connected with the Church —
such men as Prof Dodd, of Transylvania University, Ky., Prof Sasnett,
of Emory College, Ga., Pres. Kirkpati-ick, of Strawberry Plains College,
E. Tenn., Pres. Hamilton, of Shelbyville University, Tenn., Prof. Casey,
of Florence Wesleyan University, Ala., Pres. Darby, of Auburn F. Col-
lege, Ala., Pres. Elliott, of Nashville F. Academy, Tenn., Pres. Church,
of°Tenn. Conf. College, Tenn., Pres. Smith, of Wesleyan F. College, Ga.,
Rev. Dr. Henkle, of the Tenn. Conf, Rev. Mr. Bonnell, of the Ken-
tucky Conf, and others. The Convention was organized and proceeded
to business. Various subjects of importance were discussed, the chief
of which related to the propriety and expediency of forming a perma-
nent association for the advancement of the cause of education. A
committee was appointed to prepare a constitution for such an associa-
tion, and that duty having been performed, the report of the committee
was critically reviewed, and after slight amendments, adopted with great
unanimity. The association is to be called The Education Institute oj
the M. E. Church, South. The constitution sets forth the leading pur-
pose of the Institute to be the adoption of measures conducive to a more
general development of the interests of education, and a more efficient
appUcation of its agencies to the furtherance of the cause of God. This
great work the Institute will promote in several ways, such as " a free
interchange of sentiment during the sessions of the Institute," "reports
from committees upon various topics as appointed at previous meetings,"
" volunteer and appointed lectiu-es _;" and in proportion as funds nia^'
be provided, the publication and circulation of the proceedings of tlic
Institute. In accordance with its leading purpose, the Institute will
seek to elevate the standard of education, by urging upon the Church
the importance of the ample endowment of all our higher mstitutions
of learning, and by encouraging the establishment of departments ui
our schools and colleges for the special training of teachers. Tlie Insti-
tute will also seek to define and recommend the course of study proper
to the various orders of literary institutions, securing thereby uniform-
ity in the course pursued by all those of similar grade ; to miprove the
character of text-books and to adapt them to the circumstances of the
South— encouraging the production of this class of books by Southern
authors ; and to promote, by the dissemination of right ideas upon the
subject, every possible improvement in the discipline and internal
management of schools. Another valuable object will be to enlist the
benevolence of the Chm'ch for the extension of educational advantages
to the poor.

150 COLLEGES AXD SCHOOLS.

Such is an outline of the unspeakably important work designed to be
performed by the Institute, as extracted from the Constitution, a copy
of which will be forwarded to you for publication. The meetings of the
body will be annual, on the third Monday of April, in the city of Nash-
ville. All teachers, and persons who have been teachers, belonging to
the M. E. Church, South, may become regular members by subscribing
the constitution, and paying an initiation fee of one dollar ; and any
other Methodist, especially interested in education, may be elected to
membership. Provision exists also for the election — which must be by
a unanimous vote — of honorary members, who must be friends to the
educational interests of our denomination. The Institute elected the
following officers for the year :

Rev. Robert Paine, D.D., President ; Rev. Geo. F. Pierce, D.D., Rev.
M. M. Henkle, D.D., Prof. Jas. B. Dodd, Rev. C. D. Elhott, Rev. 0. L.
Smith, Vice-Presidents ; Rev. A. L. Hamilton, D.D., Secretary ; Prof
C. Callender, Treasurer.

On motion, two committees were appointed, one to select themes for
lectures and essays, and the other to assign subjects for reports to be
delivered and presented at the next annual session of the Institute.

Said committees reported as follows : The themes for these lectures,
essays, etc., and the persons appointed to jwepare them, are as follows :

1st Opening lecture by the President, on the proper method of intro-
ducing the Bible as a text book in all our institutions.

2d. Lecture by the Rev. J. 0. Church, D.D., on the importance of
our itinerant system of educating the childi'en of our travelling preach-
ers free of expense for tuition and board.

3d. Lecture by Prof John Darby, on the importance of Natural His-
tory as a branch of education.

4th. Essay by Rev. R. H. Rivers, D.D., on the importance of thorough
EngUsh scholarship, and the means of attaining it.

5th. Essay by Rev. J. R. Thomas, on the best method of school gov-
ernment and discipline.

6th. Essay by Prof 0. F. Casey, on the best method of teaching An-
cient Languages.

7th. Report on the proper course of study for Male Colleges and High
Schools, to be prepared by Rev. W. M. Wightman, D.D., and Rev. W.
J. Sasnett.

8th. Report on the proper course of study for Female Colleges and
Academies, to be prepared by Rev. A. H. Mitchell, D.D., and Rev. O.
L. Smith.

9th. Report on the expediency of providing, as far as possible, a sys-
tem of Common School Education by benevolent effort or otherwise, to
be prepared by Rev. J. M. Bonnell and Rev. W. H. Anderson, D.D.

10th. Report on the proper time and length of vacations, to be pre-
pared by Prof A. R. Holcombe and Prof J. B. Dodd.

11th. Report on the expediency of establishing a scientific school
journal under the patronage of this Institute, to be prepared by Rev. E.
E Wiley, D.D., and Pres. J. Darby.

12th. Report on the subject of the endowment of our higher institu-
tions of learning, to be prepared by Rev. George F. Fierce, D.D., and
Rev. W. A. Smith, D.D.

INTRODUCTORY SPEECH OF RKV. C. K. MARSHALL. 151
iNtRODUCTORY SpEECH OF ReV. C. K. MARSHALL,

On laying the Corner-Stone of the Centre Building of Centenary
College, La., July, 1856.

Friends of Literature and Gentlemen of the Faculty and Board of

Trustees :

This occasion is one of no ordinaiy import. Commencement day is
the great Sabbath of college life. To many young gentlemen connected
with this Institution, this is one of the most momentous days of their
being. For years they have awaited its coming with mingled emotions
of hope and fear ; and from the distant future they will look back upon
its joj'-lit summit as one of the most memorable of all the days past.
To the friends of home education it is a day fraught with hopes and
hallowed with prayers which render it sacred to them.

In addition to the ordinary duties of this day, we have collected on
this spot to lay the corner-stone of the splendid superstructure, the
gradually rising walls of which arrest your attention and fill your breast
with emotions of profound satisfaction.- The spirit with which the en-
terprise goes on, and the imposing aspect which the work already pre- •
sents, gives cheering earnest of the pleasure the benefactors and the
builders who are carrying forward the plan, the professors and teachers
who shall occupy its halls, and the pupils and patrons, will enjoy when,
not the corner, but the cope-stone, shall come to its place with " shoutings
of grace unto it." Every philanthropic spirit, every liberal and enlight-
ened mind must rejoice, especially at this crisis in our national affairs,
to witness such a day and service as this. It is a day of conquests ; a
day of the mighty rousing of the people for the establishment of their
own schools, and shall be swiftly followed by many other days and
doings of a similar kind. Men feel assured to-day in this assembly,
that the cause of home education in the largest sense, is fixed among
the inevitabilities of Providence. And come what may, with His blessing,
the business of learning is deemed so first-rate in importance that its
solemn work can never be ignored or slighted on this soil again. Never
did this college see a brighter day than this. The day of small things
has not been despised, consequently the day of noble things is now upon
you. The future of your career must be upward and onward, and
Centenary take rank with the best educational agencies of the land.
While we g:\ze upon the older buildings with their laurels of those
powers for usefulness which, virtuously employed, must result in their
everlasting well-being. This new edifice is not only a fresh pledge to
the cause of learning, but in a large and appropriate sense a temple
reared to God, his service and worship. For all diligent study, all
efforts to acquire knowledge, are but other forms of rendering homage
and praise to heaven. Well may it cheer our hearts to see its fair pro-
portions rise ; well may it awaken pleasing emotions to contemplate its
speedy completion, and the important facilities its ample plans will give
to the work you have to do.

The services of this moment are peculiarly interesting. This day,
this hour has been set apart for laying the corner-stone in conformity
to a time-honored usage when buildings of great importance or public
utility were to be con.structed. Precisely when and with whom the cus-

152 COLLEGES AND SCHOOLS.

torn originated we are unable to tell. The corner-stones of Egyptian
pyramids may possibly hold the secret in their unexplored repositories.
The Masonic Fraternity holds some interesting reminiscences which
have been saved from the waves of the elder time, under which lie, irre-
coverably lost, so many valuable treasures, but nothing which can definite-
ly settle this question. That Society is familiar with the laying of ordinary
corner-stones, and the committee of arrangements at one time contem-
plated with much gratification their assistance and their ceremonies on
laying this stone. But, with characteristic frankness, they acknow-
ledged that they were not equal to the task. This is the only corner
of this building deemed fit and proper to receive the symbolic stone,
but we find the Masons bound to ignore all corners except the north-
east. With them it must be there or nowhere ; with us, unfortunately,
like "point no point" to a traveller on our inland sea, the north-east
angle of this structure is " corner no corner ;" place no place ; altogether
nearer "nowhere" than any other possible spot where we could deposit
this beautiful marble ark with the gems and treasures with which it will
soon be stored. We all regret it. As a Mason I could but realize a
great disappointment. Still Masonry has done, and can do noble things
— chide her not if she can not do every thing. Their declinature is
most trying to me because it imposes a large amount of labor on me,
and takes me altogether by surprise.

That labor, however, is relieved by the pleasure I enjoy on being able
to command the resources and assistance, in the present services, of a
society far more ancient, more venerable, distinguished, and immutable
than that of the Masonic fraternity. I refer to the Abrahami filiornm
antiqua fraternitas. This venerable fraternity was founded by the
patriarch Abraham, the father of the faithful, and the "friend of God."
With so iUusti'ious a founder, the Washington of his age, it is not to be
wondered at that a long line of the most distinguished worthies should
have perpetuated its existence, maintained its ritual, and gloried in the
"faith" which cements and binds the brotherhood to this day, wherever
its doctrines have been embraced. Abraham was a builder. On one
occasion he reared an altar on Mount Moriah. The precise form of the
structure we can not certainly declare. But as an humble member of
the fraternity I will take leave to presume that it was circular, because
the annulus or ring was in that day used as a symbol of the Deity, and
the altar was erected as an act of homage to the true God. If circle-
shaped, it had no Masonic corner. Consequently the officers and mem-
bers of our fraternity are bound to respect alike all points of the com-
pass. That altar was built on a mountain summit. We have selected
this beautiful elevation for ours, and we place the comer-stone higher
up on the superstructure than is the custom of our younger kinsman.*
We have the authority of an imposing precedent, and we hope that all
fair-minded Masons wiU congratulate us on the superior advantages and
distinction we possess and enjoy ; for we would not have them for a
moment suppose we would honor their fraternity less, but, as in duty
bound, t\y& AbraJiami Jiliorum antiqua fraternitas more. And while
we so honor our higher fraternity, we rejoice to know that thousands

* The first story of the buildina: was up, and the next one going forward rapidly, but no
Buitfttile time till this offered for these services.

HTJNTSVILLK FEMAIJK COLLEGE, 153

of the highest Masons have been initiated into its more sublime and
more enlightening mysteries.

The past, the present, the future, all belong to us. From remote and
dusty centuries, tlu-ough all their eventful fortunes, amidst the conflict
of nations, the rise and fall of empu-es, the growth and decay of cities,
the building and consecration of sacred temples, this fi-aternity has been
present, by its representatives, to take a part and exert a benign, hu-
manizing, and religious influence, and record its hi.story and deeds with
letters composed of the noblest structures of science, philanthropy, and
Divine worship. This day witnesses similar offices, and future genera-
tions shall never want for faithful members to execute the high behests
of the venerable orders.

Nor shall its worthy members fail of honorable promotion and a just
reward. They shall have fuU and ennobling labor for their hands,
peace for their conscience, and exhaustless supplies of food for the grow-
ing demands of the ever-expanding mind. The faithful student will
meet with histories and biographies fraught with curious phenomena of
friendship, love, and heroism; of virtuous deeds and philanthropic
labors, under circumstances and of a character the most remarkable ever
known since time began. Their employments will be adapted to the
peculiarities of an industrious and dignified fellowship, than which none
are better calculated to unfold tlie character, impress upon it the image
of true greaiiiess, strengthen moral obligation, and open the way for a
useful and honorable life. At a future day we shall "open the door,"
for the reception of worthy applicants fi'om all the inferior "fraternities"
who are in pursuit of "more light." May the spkit of this Abrahamic
fraternity ever preside over this institution, reign through its halls,
cheer its dormitories and bless the young hearts that shall throb within
these apartments when ours are pulseless and cold in the silent gi-ave.

Note. — The Board of Trustees, faculty, and several societies connected
with the College, having made arrangements to deposit certain memorials
in the corner-stone, now proceeded in their respective orders, to present
them to Rev. Mr. Marshall as the orator of the occasion.

HuNTSviLLE Female College, Huntsville, Ala.
The sessions begin with February and September.

FACULTY.

Rev. GEORGE M. E\T:RHART, A.M., President.
Rev. A. R. Ebwix, D.D., Nafural Sciences.

Miss MrsEBVA J. Baxner, i
" Fannie E. Steger, > Literary Department.

" Mary E. Snead, )

Herman S. Sauoni, i

J. J. Gius, > Music Department.

Mrs. A. B. EVERHAKT, )

Miss Rosa Shackston, Drawing and Painting.
Mdlle. C. L. De Clave, French and German.
Mi.ss Annie E. Winter, Governess.

154 SUNDAY-SCHOOLS.

The Building (seen in the engraving) cost thirty-Jive thousand dol-
lars, twenty-two thousand of which were paid by Daniel B. Turner,
Thos. S. McCalley, Wm. H. Moore, and Wm. J. McCalley, of Hunts-
ville — an act of distinguished liberality on the part of these gentlemen.
The establishment, in its various departments, is perhaps as elegantly
and comfortably provided as any other of the kind in the whole
country.

The Apparatus, chemical and philosophical, cost $1000.

Gold Medal. — $300 have been invested by D. B. Turner, Esq., the
annual income of which is to provide a medal for the highest proficiency
in music.

Statistics. — The College has been in operation five sessions, and the
number of pupils in regular attendance has been respectively as follows :
76, 90, 108, 120, and 142

LiTEEAKY iNSTITDTIOlSrS OF THE MeTHODIST EPISCOPAL ChUECH,

South.

For an official catalogue of the schools and colleges under the patron-
age of each of our conferences, see " Annals of Southern Methodism
for 1855," p. 188.

CHAPTER VI.
SUNDAY-SCHOOLS

Fob the organization of the " Sunday-School Society of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, South," its Constitution, List of OflBcers, Tabular
Statements, etc., see "Annals of Southern Methodism" for 1855, p.
190.

No reports of the Society's proceedings have reached us. The follow-
ing gleanings may be found interesting for present reading and useful
for future reference.

Sunday-School Society.

The flu-st anniversary of the Sunday-School Society of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, South, was held in the M'Kendree Church, Nashville,
Monday evening, April 21, 1856 ; Bishop Early presiding.

The exercises were opened with prayer, after which some remarks
were made by the Corresponding Secretary of the Society.

Bishop Andrew then addressed the audience in a brief but pertinent
speech, in which he forcibly set forth the paramount importance of the
Sunday-school enterprise, lie wished to be understood as indorsing
sentiments which had been uttered in favor of the Society. It was im-

SUNDAY-SCHOOL AT CAMDEN, 8. C. 155

portant to teach Christianity to the children. If wrong principles are
to be eradicated, and right ones inculcated, childhood is the hopeful age
in which to begin the work. The Sunday-school was important to the
grown-up members of the Church. Christians are not apt to grow in
grace unless they worh. Employment, and particularly this sort of em-
ployment, is necessary to spiritual health. Hence, persons who faith-
fully attend Sunday-schools, and industriously endeavor to teach the
children the way of Ufe, are not so liable to spiritual decline as others.

The Bishop's remarks were Ustened to with great delight, and, it is
to be hoped, with corresponding profit.

At the close of the address, the Rev. A. P. McFerrin read the Trea-
surer's Report. Rev. F. A. Owen, the Treasurer, was prevented by in-
disposition from attending the anniversary, and as it was thought that
some items properly belonging to his exhibit had not yet been reported
to him, no action was at that time had upon that report. He has since
kindly furnished us with a statement of the financial condition of the
Society, by which it appears that there are $308 in the treasury.

The Society then proceeded to the election of its officers for the en-
suing year. President, Bishop Soule ; Vice-Presidents, Bishops An-
drew, Paine, Pierce, Early, and Kavanaugh ; Rev. T. O. Summers,
D.D., and Rev. A. L. P. Green, D.D. ; Corresponding Secretary, L. 1).
Huston ; Recording Secretary, G. S. Newsom ; Treasurer, Rev. J. E.
Evans ; Managers, J. P. Ford, M.D., J. Johnson, "W. B. Cooper, W. R
Elliston, L. D. Baker, J. M. Smith, I. Litton, C. Walker, J. Waterfield,
W. Cameron, J. S. Petway, J. Murrell, J. A. Walker, M. Hamilton,
J. Ferris, AV. B. Matthews, G. W. Mizell, J. Wheliss, P. W. Maxey,
A. W. Pile, R. H. Grooms, S. P. Ament, A. Morrison, J. W. Ratclifto,
J. Clodfelter, L. K. Spain, S. Haslam, W. Jackson, J. C. Ross, M.D.,
E. A. Herman, M.D.

The election over. Dr. Summers, one of the most valuable friends, it
need scarcely be said, of the Sunday-school cause, responded to a request
of the Secretary, in a stirring speech, towards the close of which he
called upon the audience for a contribution to the Society's funds. The
amount raised was, we believe, over $155, a very creditable sum, when
it is remembered that no measures had been taken to make the occasion
a popular one, that the audience were not expecting to be called upon
for a contribution, and that a collection was taken but the Sunday be
fore for the benefit of the school connected with that charge.

•o^

Sunday-School at Camden, S. C.

While sending you a notice of certain exercises df our Sabbath-school,
I have thought proper to add a few statements respecting it. The se-
verity of the winter interfered with us greatly, on two occasions cntirelj'
preventing the scholars fi^om attending. In the spring and summer
months we have a very interesting school, the scholars numbering fi-oni
sixty to eighty, quite as many as we can expect in a town which has
four Sunday-schools. We have twelve excellent teachers, five males
and seven females, and we find that the success of the school, and tlie
interest manifested by the scholars, depend mainly upon their cfficiiiicy
and punctuality. Our teachcr.s' meetings occur monthly. They liavo

156 SUNDAY-SCHOOLS.

proved profitable, and indeed almost indispensable to success. The
great drawback upon this school heretofore, has been the early with-
drawal of the more advanced scholars. No school can be what it should
be if the larger scholars entertain the idea that they are growing too
big to learn, or know enough to leave school. Your Visitor is read
with increasing interest, and our little folks look with intense anxiety
for its monthly calls. Our habit is to draw attention from the desk to
its narratives, incidents, plates, etc., and in this way to fix its admirable
teachings indelibly upon the memory.

The distribution of the prizes which yoiu* correspondent notices, was
to us interesting and encouraging. The owner of prize No. 1 affords to
all children an instructive lesson of what can be accomplished under
circumstances adverse and embarrassing. Notwithstanding daily
attendance upon the week-day school, and the demands of the home of
a widowed mother, without help, her industry, indefatigable energy,
and ready grasp of mind, enabled her to attend, without one single
failure, upon her place in the school, and to repeat as she has done,
about three hundred verses of Scriptiire for a lesson, besides the usual
questions and hymns memorized. Others deserve special mention, but
I close. Can you inform us what amount of iponey, in addition to price
of subscription, will be necessary to forward to you to pay in advance
at Nashville the postage on our fifty copies ?

" W. TH0BLOW Caston, Superintendent.

Celebration at Arrow Rock, Missouri.

The night of the 25th of December was fixed upon for our Sunday-
school celebration, but owdng to the severity of the weather, it was
postponed until the 27th.

The ' assembly met at the church. A large platform was erected
around the pulpit, and provided with seats for the teachers and scholars.

On the north wall, behind the platform, and facing the congregation,
the banners of the school were tastefully arranged. Beneath the large
banner, which occupied the centre, were the words, in large letters
formed of cedar twigs, " Feed my lambs ;" and under these was hung a
harp, of the same material. On the east wall was a representation of
the " Star in the East," surrounded with a wreath of cedar ; and on the
west wall were the words, "Love God." The lamps, windows, pillars,
and gallery, were all tastefully decorated with cedar, and the church
was brilliantly illuminated ; and the contrast of pure white and deep
green produced, under the strong light, a beautiful effect.

The teachers and scholars came in procession to the church at half-
past six P.M., accompanied by the preacher in charge of Arrow Rock
circuit, and took their seats on the platform. Although the weather
was cold, and the ground covered with snow, the church was filled with
spectators.

The exercises were opened with singing, in which the school and con-
gregation joined, and prayer by the pastor. The Superintendent, H.
W. Filley, then read his report, which showed the school to be in a
prosperous condition, and stated that within the last two yean fifteen
of the members of the school had been converted to God. Next came the

GEORGIA. 157

speaking and singing by the scholars. Twenty-eight pieces were
spoken — twelve by the girls and sixteen by the boys ; and five dialogues
in which ten of the girls and four of the boys took parts. At regular
intervals, beautiful and appropriate hymns were sung by the school.
Many of the pieces were quite lengthy, and the scholars engaged were
from four to six years of age. The scholars performed their parts re-
markably well : as their names were called they stepped forward to the
front of the platform without any delay, spoke their pieces, and retired
with the applause of the audience. If I were to name those who de-
serve praise, I should have to name all, and that would make my com-
munication too long. After the speaking was done, one of the girls^
eleven years of age, came forward with a basket of flowers, and stand-
ing on the front of the platform, sang "The Orphan Flower Girl," in a
beautiful manner, which drew long and loud applause from the audience.
Next an address on Sunday-schools was delivered by the pastor of the
church, at the close of which a collection was taken up for the benefit
of school, amounting to $13. Two of the girls waited on the congre-
gation, while the school sang :

" Now be the Gospel banner
In every land ui^led," etc.

The school then formed a procession and marched up into the gallery,
and forming a hue along its front, sang the parting hymn :

" Here we sufier grief and pain,
Here we meet to part again :
In heaven we"U part no more."

The benediction was then pronounced, after which the teachers, schol-
ars, and friends present, enjoyed themselves finely over a bountiful sup-
per, which was provided by the liberal people of Arrow Rock and vicin-
ity. The exercises of the evening were deeply interesting, and all
present were much delighted with the celebration. The Superintendent
and teachers deserve much praise for the dUigent manner in which they
have taught the children.

May the Arrow Rock Sunday-school of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, South, five long and prosper !

Geokgia.

The Rev. J. M. Bonnell, former Treasurer of the Georgia Conference
Simday-School Society, says :

"By a standing order of the Georgia Annual Conference, ' collections
are to be taken up in the month of March or April, in all the circuits
and stations, for the aid of Sunday-schools in destitute portions of the
Conference ; which collections arc to be remitted,' in full, and as soon
as raised, ' to the treasurer of the Conference Sunday-School Society.'
The Society has now become auxiliary to the General Society of the con-
nection, and the treasurer, not the preachers in charge, is to remit one
fifth of all these funds to the Treasurer of the Parent Society. The rv-

158 SUNDAY-SCHOOLS.

maining four fifths are to enable him to send donations to the above-
mentioned needy Sunday-schools.

" 2. Donations. — Sunday-schools in needy sections, or among indigent
classes of population, where it is diificult to raise money, but where
Sunday-schools could be kept up if supplied with books, can, on appli-
cation, indorsed by the Quarterly Conference of the appointment that
embraces it in its bounds, obtain donations to the value of five dollars to
each school ; or, if it is pledged to be sustained, winter and summer, for
five years, to the value of five dollars. All such appUcations must be
addressed to the treasurer, and, in every case, clear directions for the
forwarding of the bundle must accompany the application."

Brother Bonnell was transferred to the Kentucky Conference before
the expiration of the Georgia Conference year. In the substitute for a
treasurer's report, offered, we suppose, by the editor of the Southei'n
Christian Advocate, we have the following instructive paragraph :

"It is true we read in the Conference statistics that there are 436
Sunday-schools in our Conference, many of which, however, are only
in operation during the summer months ; but forget that there are 1000
Methodist churches in Georgia ; that there are 2750 enlisted as officers
and teachers in these schools, but it is from a church-membership of
more than 50,000; that there are 16,590 scholars, but they are furnished
to us from an aggregate congregation of 150,000 ; and that, as a Church,
owning property in the State to the value of $393,943, which is certainly
an index of private wealth, we contribute only $2194.23 for Sunday-
school purposes. With these resources in numbers, influence, and
wealth, why have we failed, and so signally failed, to command them
with that energy and success which an interest so vast and eternal de-
mands at our hands ? It becomes us as faithful stewards of the mani-
fold grace of God to inquire diligently into the reason. Does it pro-
ceed from dereliction on our part as pastors of the fold ; or is there any
thing in our system of operations intervening or inconsistent with a
more zealous devotion to this work ? No doubt, the reason is in some
measure blended with both."

Texas.

The Committee on Sunday-schools, appointed by the last Texas Con-
ference, say in their excellent report :

" We are able to report, for the present year, forty-six Sunday-schools,
forty-six superintendents, nine hundred and fifty-three teachers, fifteen
hundi'ed and fifty-seven scholars, eighty -one hundred and twenty-two
volumes in library, two hundred and fifty-two Visitors taken, and one
hundred and twelve dollars fifty cents Sunday-school money collected.''

California.

We learn from the California Christian Advocate, that there are
under our control in that State, twenty Sunday-schools, eighty-eight
teachers, five hundred and seventy-five scholars, three thousand one
hundred and thirty-six volumes, and $508.50 have been collected for
Sunday-school purposes.

CELEBEATION IN COLUMBIA, S. C. 159

Memphis Conference.

" The statistics in the aggregate, as far as they have been furnished
your committee, are as follows : one hundred and twenty-seven schools,
one hundred and forty-eight superintendents, seven hundred and eight
teachers, four thousand three hundred and ninety-eight scholars, nine
thousand six hundred and fifty-seven volumes in libraries, two hundred
and forty-one Sunday -School Visitors taken, sixty-eight conversions
among scholars, $421.16 of money collected."

Virginia Conference.

Of Sunday-schools, the Secretary of the Virginia Conference reports
three hundi-ed and four schools, three hundi-ed and fifty-five superin-
tendents, two thousand three hundi'ed and seventeen teachers, thirteen
thousand two hundred and twenty-eight scholars, thirty -five thousand
three hundred and twenty-six volumes in libraries, $1958.90 expended
in support of schools.

Celebration in Columbia, S. C.

The celebration of the Marion-street Sunday-school, Columbia, South-
Carolina, came ofi" last Fourth of July. When the school entered the
church, they found it crowded below, and with plenty of bonnets lean-
ing over the galleries. The Rev. W. A. Gamewell opened the service
with a solemn prayer, and then, after a hymn from the choir, the speak-
ing began. Six boys addressed us, two of them in a dialogue, which
gave an interesting account of the rise and progress of Sunday-schools.
Between the speeches, the choir, which was composed of the Presbyte-
rian and Methodist choirs united, sang delightfully. All the boys
acquitted themselves handsomely, doing credit to the instruction of our
pastor, the Rev. F. A. Mood.

" After the speaking by the boys, and appropriate singing, the 5.ev.
J. T. Wightman, from Charleston, addressed the scholars and teachers
in a pleasant and eloquent manner. During the singing of the last
hymn, the six speakers passed little baskets among the audience, to
obtain their Sunday-school offering ; and they gave a fine collection,
for it was enough to pay the debt on our library, and also to buy us
more books.

" But our pleasure was not ended. The next afternoon the whole
school, with some invited guests, assembled at Taylor Spring. This
spring is on the outskirts of our beautiful city, and flows fi-om the foot
of a high hill, covered with fine large oaks, and a beautiful carpet of
green grass.

" I hope the ladies and gentlemen enjoyed themselves as much as we
children did. After eating ice-creams, and melons, and other nice
things which were spread out for us, we left the grown folks to manage
what was left, while we frolicked over the woods. And such fun as we
had I 'romping,' as mother calls it, over the grass! Indeed, every
thing passed off as pleasantly as could be."

160 SUNDAY-SCHOOLS.

Celebkation in New-Orleans, La.

"According to promise, I gi^o you an item or two respecting the
Moreau-street Sunday-school, New-Orleans, the celebration and six-
teenth anniversary of which came off on the Fourth of July. The
church was splendidly decorated with banners, flags, and flowers. The
exercises were commenced at ten o'clock A.M., by singing that beauti-
ful hymn, ' Heavenly Father, grant thy blessing ;' after which prayer
was offered by the Rev. Reynolds Trippett. The speaking was then
opened by a beautiful address for the Fourth of July. There were a
great many pieces spoken, among which, ' Behavior in Church,' ' Lon-
don Cries,' 'Burial of Moses,' and 'Baptism of Christ,' deserve much
praise.

"When the speaking was ended, the school sang the national air,
' Hail Columbia ;' after which, a collection was taken up for the benefit
of the school. The Rev. H. N. M'Tyeire then delivered a short address
and pronounced the benediction. The children were then called by
classes, and marched down to the basement, where a bountiful supply
of refreshments awaited them. Thus passed the Independence Day
with the Moreau-street Sunday-school. Yours truly,

" Charles B. Lawrence."

Celebration est St. Louis, Mo.

The Centenary Sunday-school of St. Louis held its fourteenth anniver-
sary on Tuesday evening last, and I have thought it would be well
enough to send you a short account of it for insertion in the Visitor.

There was quite a good turn-out on the evening in question, consid-
ering that it was the week of the Great Mississippi Valley Fair, which,
for the time, filled every body's thoughts. At half-past seven o'clock
the teachers and scholars took their places in the reserved scats; and
some who were to take apart in the exercises as speakers, etc., ranged
themselves upon the platform prepared for the occasion. After the
opening hymn and prayer, the superintendent made a short address, in
which he stated that though this was about the usual time for our Sun-
day-school to hold its anniversary, yet the object to-night was not so
much to make a shoio of the school, as to awaken and confirm such an
interest in the Sunday-school cause as should be felt by those living in
such a great and growing city as ours. That, while it was gratifying to
mark the efforts now being made by Christian people to extend the
blessings of Sabbath-schools, and to furnish, through this instrument-
ality, to the young the means of instruction in those truths so essential
to their present well-being and future happiness, it was, at the same
time, a matter much to be deplored that we, in St, Louis, were not as
deeply interested in the subject as we ought to be, considering the vast
field that opened before us. This was evidenced by the fact which had
been recently ascertained, that barely five thousand of the more than
twenty-five thousand comprising the juvenile population of the city,
were what might be properly called Sabbath-school children ; thus
leaving twenty thousand children — a fearful number truly — ^growing up
amongst us, without any of those softening, restraining, and preserving
influences which the Sunday-school would throw around them. The

CELEBRATION IN ST. LOUIS, MO. 161

main object, then, of this meeting was to consider the question, How
can these be reached ? AYhat means can be employed to gather them
into the vacant places in our school-room ? If any present might be
prompted, while witnessing the exercises, to resolve, like the servants
of old who were sent to bid guests to the supper, to go out into the
streets and alleys, the by-ways and thoroughfares of the city, and
gather in the lost and straying, so that by this means even one might
be added to our number who had never heretofore attended anj' Sunday-
school, and who might henceforth become a faithful and punctual mem-
ber, we should consider that a great result indeed had followed this
anniversary.

After singing again, a speech, full of good thoughts well expressed,
was delivered in a clear, unfaltering voice to an attentive audience, by
Harrison Clealand, a scholar. Next came "An Analogy between
Christ and Joseph," by a class of six, three boys and three girls ; then
three dialogues, one on "Going to Sunday-school," by two boys, admir-
ably well performed ; another on the " Different Manners of Teaching,"
by two girls ; and a " Dialogue on Dancing," by three girls; afterwards
a speech by a little boy, followed by one in verse by a very little girl ;
to aU of which the audience gave evidence of their approval by their
pleasant looks and quiet attention.

But perhaps the most pleasing incident of any, was the presentation by
by a scholar, on behalf of the teachers, of four large volumes of " Benson's
Commentary" to Brother Burd, who had been connected with the school
from its commencement, more than fourteen years ago, as a token of
their affectionate regard for him, and of his pious devotion to every
tiling likely to do good. So profoundly secret was this presentation
kept, ^at scarcely any one but the teachers knew any thing of it ; and
Brother Burd himself had not the most distant intimation of what was
in contemplation, till the volumes, bearing the inscription in beautiful
gilt letters, on the side of each —

"presented to
JOHN W. BURD,

BY THE CENTENARY SUNDAY-SCHOOL,

ST. LOUIS, MO.,

AT ITS ANNIVERSARY MEETING, OCT. 14, 1856,"

were placed upon the table, and the following presentation speech grace-
fully spoken by Miss Mary Polk :

" To me, sir, has the pleasing task been assigned of presenting you,
on behalf of the teachers, with these handsome volumes, as a token of
their affection, and testimonial of their appreciation of your services,
and the interest you have shown for our welfiire and happiness. Your
name appears upon the records of our school fi-om its earliest commence-
ment ; and amidst the vicissitudes of past years, the indifference of
i-omc, and the lukewarmness of others, who, growing weary in well
doing, have gone off, and have no longer a place with us, you, sir, have
Ktood faithful at your post ; and the teachers feel that they but do a

162 SUNDAY-SCHOOLS.

simple act of justice in giving this expression to the feelings of their
hearts towards one who has served them so faithfully and so well. I
present you these, therefore, on behalf of the teachers, with the hope
that as you turn over these pages in coming days, you may derive some
satisfaction from the assurance they give that your zealous devotion to
the interests of the school is not forgotten, but will ever be held in
grateful and enduring remembrance."

Brother Burd was so taken aback by this unexpected demonstration,
that he stood for a while as the man of Scripture who had not on a
wedding garment ; his looks, however, gave utterance to his feelings,
"in the silent eloquence that passes speech."

Thus passed oft' the fourteenth anniversary of our school ; and that
it may result in the addition of many little ones to our number in the
ensuing year, is a " consummation most devoutly to be wished."

Yours truly, Alpha.

St. Louis, Mo., October, 1856.

Celebkation at Elliott's Hill, Va,

The morning of the day (Aug. 9) appointed for the celebration, was
bright and beautiful. Upon a gently sloping hill stood the new and
elegant church just erected, as a monument to the liberaUty of this peo-
ple, and their kind feelings to Southern Methodism. About a stone's
cast from this, in a beautiful grove selected for the purpose, was spread
a substantial table, stretching out its huge length to receive a more than
supply of provisions, which was being poured in like an impetuous
avalanche, until it seemed to groan beneath the richest viands of life.
An unusually large vessel of iced lemonade, together with nuts, can-
dies, and fruits of the tropics, scattered in lavish profusion over the
table, showed that the good friends had neither spared labor nor money
to make it a happy occasion.

Clouds of dust were rolling up from every lane and highway, betoken-
ing the crowds of people that were urging their way to the place of
celebration. About eleven A.M., the hill was crowded with a dense
mass of human beings of all ages, from the puling infant to the hoary
grandsire, trembling under a load of years. The E. H. School, num-
bering nearly a hundred, together with those present from other schools,
invited, was then formed in a procession by the ofiicers of the schools,
and marched into the church, where they were comfortably seated,
after which the crowd rushed in, filling it to overflowing. A beautiful
hymn was then sung by the choir and children uniting, and prayer
offered up for the success of the school, when a Sabbath-school address
was delivered by the minister in charge, (all the speakers engaged for
the occasion being absent in the morning.)

We then partook of a sumptuous dinner and returned to the church,
where we were entertained with an eloquent and impressive speech on
the importance of Sabbath-schools, from Mr. Henry A. "Wise, Jr., son of
our most excellent Governor. "We trust his laudable example, "going
about doing good," will be emulated by the young men of Virginia.

G. F. DOOGETT.

THE LITTLE GIRL WHO BUILT A FAJtflLY ALTAE. 163

[From the S. C. Advocate^ Oct. 30.]

Anniversary in Charleston, S. C.

The Sabbath-school at Bethel Church celebrated its anniversary last
Sunday. The raw damp air and the threatening aspect of the sky, were
unfavorable to a large attendance of the children. However, to our sur-
prise, we found almost the entire school assembled, and awaiting with
beaming countenances the interesting services of the hour. After the
opening of the school, the superintendent, F. J. Pelzer, Esq., presented a
number of beautiful books as rewards for exemplary conduct, regular and
punctual attendance, and faultless recitations. A chaste and interesting
address was then delivered to the teachers and scholars by Mr. A. P. Gray.
But the impressive and beautiful portion of the ceremonies was the pre-
sentation of a splendid Bible to the Rev. J. T. Wightman, pastor of this
church. The gift was prefaced by a few appropriate remarks from the
superintendent, and acknowledged in his happiest style by the receiver.
An earnest and able discourse by Bro. Wightman closed these delight-
ful services. The congregation evinced their interest in the occasion by
a liberal contribution to the funds of the school. We are pleased to
learn that during the past two years this school has been steadily im-
proving, having, during this space of time, more than trebled its num-
ber. The zeal and industry of the officers and teachers, authorize us to
expect a greater increase of prosperity. Oh ! that the Church could feel
that interest commensurate with the importance of this noble work.

The Little Girl who built a Family Altar.

Some years ago, there lived a little girl in Kentucky, who was the
only child of her parents, and they were members of our Church. She
was very fond of going to church, where she listened with all the atten-
tion she could give to what the minister said.

One evening she heard a sermon upon the subject of family worship,
which she seemed to understand perfectly ; for, as soon as she got
home, she asked her father why lie did not have prayers with his family.
He tried, for a while, to put her oflf with evasive answers, but she pur-
sued the subject with such direct simplicity, that at length he told her,
if she would go into the parlor, and bring him the Bible, he would have
prayer.

Now, the child was but five or six years old, very much afraid of
dark places, and there was no light in the parlor ; so that her father had
not the slightest idea she would go. But, very much to his surprise, she
arose, with a mingled expression of timidity and resolution, and started
for the Bible. She could not open the folding-doors, and therefore had
to reach the parlor through the dark liall. But she felt her way along,
and in a few seconds her father heard her stumbling against the chairs
in the parlor.

This was more than he could bear : he was a Christian gentleman, in-
tensely fond of his little daughter, and his heart was stung with remorse.

"Merciful God !" he exclaimed, " is that my child, groping about in
the dreaded dark, for the Light of Life, wherewith to guide ray erring
feet into the path of duty ?"

164 TRACT SOCIETY.

He sprang to the door, threw it open, and discovered his baby
preacher, with her dimpled arms strained round the big Family Bible,
the weight of which was a full match for her strength. God was keep
ing the dark and the fear off, while his little friend won her first
trophy. In a few minutes more, she was kneeling with her parents at
their new family altar.

Just see what a child can do, by the blessing of God ! She and her
father had heard the same sermon ; but he heard it carelessly, she with
meekness. He listened to his favorite preacher, she to the word of the
Lord.

CHAPTER VII.

TRACT SOCIETY OF THE METHODIST EPISCOPAL

CHURCH, SOUTH.

For the constitution, etc., of this Society, see '■^Annals of Southern,
Methodism, for 1855," p. 192.

We have no reports, and no regular statistics, in this department,
except the following article. "We hope this great work will be fully
at work during this year and enrich this chapter for the next issue.

Methodist Tract Society of New-Orleans.

"We are indebted to the President, "W. H. Foster, Esq., for the annual
report of the Tract Society of New-Orleans. The period embraced in
the report is less than a year — extending from June 1, 1855, to April 1,
1856.

The Society was organized in March of last year, but did not get into
operation until the date mentioned. From the report we notice that
this Society has employed two colporteurs, who have been actively en-
gaged in the distribution of tracts, books, and Bibles within the limits
of the city.

Besides these regular colporteurs, many voluntary distributors, fi'om
the several Methodist churches, have been engaged in the work. Alto-
gether, 244,908 pages of tracts have been disti'ibuted. Books have been
sold to the amount of $4G2.02, and donated to the amount of $42.03.
Bibles have been sold to the amount of $80.20, and donated to the
amount of $13.51.

The colporteurs and distributors report having visited 7850 families.
This, we presume, is the number of visits, and that some families have
been visited more than once. Three hundred and fifty families have
been prayed with, sixty-seven persons induced to attend church, and
one hundred and six Sunday-school children secured. The rei)ort upon

SOUTHEEN METHODIST LITERATURE. 165

the last points is imperfect. Probably a good deal more has been don e
than the figures indicate.

This report is rather gratifying — not that the results are satisfactory,
but that it shows that something has been done, and is still doing. The So-
ciety, thus far, has been cramped in its operations, for want of money and
books. The President informs us that it is impossible to obtain the lat-
ter in quantities to meet the demand. Can not the Tract Department at
Nashville help this ? And will not the liberal fiiends of the very best
of enterprises see that the funds are replenished ? New-Orleans is the
best field in the world for tract distribution, and this mode of evangeli-
cal culture is the most efficient that can be adopted.

We have before us a copy of the Constitution and By-Laws of the
Society. It is thoroughly and efficiently organized, with a competent
board of officers and managers. At some future time we shall take oc-
casion to present our readers the Constitution and By-Laws. Mean-
while, let us remember the cause.

CHAPTER VIM.

SOUTHERN METHODIST LITERATURE.

Notices of our Publishestg House.
Ofr Publishing Intebests at Charleston.

During our visit to the East, we made a call at Charleston, where we
remained a short period, sharing the hospitalities of Rev. E. H. Myers,
Dr. Cross, and their excellent families. We have for satisfactory reasons
delayed a notice of the publishing interests of our Church there. We
now desire to state a few facts which should be known generally. And
first, our readers are apprised that the Southern Christian Advocate is
pubHshed at Charleston. It is patronized mainly by the South-Carolina,
Georgia, and Florida Conferences, but has a considerable circulation iu
Alabama, North-Carolina, and other States. Its list of subcribers is
large, and constantly increasing. It is deservedly a popular paper, be-
cause it is well edited, has a number of able contributors, and is hand-
somely printed. It was, for a number of years, edited by Dr. Wight-
man, and had the light of Dr. Summers' countenance during his resid-
ence in that city ; it is now, however, conducted by Rev. E. H. Myers,
who is giving much satisfaction to those who patronize his journal. It
is soundly Methodistic, and is exerting a happy influence upon a large
community. The paper is printed in an office belonging to the Metho-
dist Episcopal Church, South, located on Ilayne street, near the
Charleston Hotel. Secondly, connected with the Advocate office is the
Charleston Depository, where there is kept on hand a Ml supply of our

166 SOUTHEKN METHODIST LITEBATURE.

books and publications, which arc sold on the same terms as those at
the Publishing House in this city. The buildings are neat, substantial,
and sufficiently spacious for the depository, printing-office, editor's
office, etc., all admirably adapted to the wants of such an establishment.
This property — real estate and all — is held by Stevenson & Owen,
Book Agents of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South. It is proper
for us to state that the Southern Christian Advocate office was trans-
ferred to the Southern Commissioners in the settlement of the question
so long in dispute between the North and the South ; and by that trans-
fer, that estabUshment, with those at Nashville and Richmond, became
the property of the Southern Church. The Book Depository, with the
real estate, belongs to the South-Carolina Conference, and was held by
Commissioners for the use and benefit of said Conference, and was con-
ducted by an agent of their own appointment. AVhen the General Con-
ference of 1854 resolved to establish a Publishing House of its own, our
brethren of South-Carolina, not wishing in any wise to divide the in-
terests of Southern Methodism, proposed to transfer the whole to the
Book Agents, on terms so generous, and exceedingly liberal, that the
Agents, byand with the advice of the Book Committee, made the purchase,
and thus merged the South-Carolina interests into the general publishing
interests of the Southern Church. This arrangement we regard as
very happy; specially as the Editor and Publishing Committee at
Charleston have engaged to pay for the real estate out of the proceeds
of the Advocate office ; so, in fact, the purchase will cost the Book
Agents directly nothing ; yet it is intrinsically valuable, and of great
use to the Church in her publishing operations. The whole establish-
ment is under the supervision of Brother Myers, who is confident that,
while it will afibrd many facilities to the Conferences bordering on the
Atlantic, it will become very profitable to the agents in a pecuniary
sense. "We have been thus particular in our details, that all those con-
cerned may know the relation the Depository at Charleston bears to our
Publishing House, and how that relation was brought about. It is pro-
per, moreover, to say, that prior to this transfer, the Book Agents of
the Northern Church, under a contract of long standing, kept a supply
of their books constantly on hand at the Charleston Depository ; but
since the recent transfer to the Southern Agents, their stock has been
purchased on terms very liberal, so that the Southern division of the
Church has the entire control of the Depository. Thus, by a wise and
judicious arrangement, the unity of our operations has been secured,
and the door thrown widely open for doing much in the Eastern division
of our broad and highly important field. We hope the Book Agents
and Brother Myers will have the hearty cooperation of those brethren
contiguous to Charleston, and that they will do much in the circulation
of our publications in that direction. Of the ability of Brother Myers
no one has any doubt who knows him well ; and his zeal and energy in
the grand enterprises of the Church commend him to all the friends of
our Zion.

Lest some one might misapprehend our remarks, perhaps we had bet-
ter say that the establishment at Charleston is strictly a Depository,
and that it is not intended by the Book Agents to publish any books
there ; they manufacture alone at the Pubhshing House in Nashville.
The office of the Southern Christian Advocate, as is usual with printing-

ANNUAL MEETING OF THE JOINT BOARD. 167

offices, will, we presume, do for its customers what is technically called
Job Work ; of this, however, we are not fully advised.

[From the NashviUe Advocate, May 1.]
Annual Meeting of the Joint Board.

Last Wednesday, the Joint Board, composed of the Book Committee
and the Book Agents, met according to appointment, and continued in
session, from day to day, during last week, consulting and arranging in
reference to the interests of the Publishing House. The Book Agents
submitted an exhibit of the assets and liabilities of the Publishing
House, embracing the amount of sales during the past six months,
(near $60,000.) This exhibit presents a state of affairs quite encourag-
ing to the friends and patrons of the Publishing House, though the
conviction can not be resisted, that a more united and vigorous coopera-
tion on the part of the ministers and members of the Church could have
been rendered, and, of course, would have greatly increased the success
of this invaluable institution of Southern Methodism. The Joint
Board, looking at actual pressing demands and the plain wants of the
Church, as well as the prospects brightening before them, resolved that
the manufacturing facilities of the estabhshment should, without delay,
be enlarged, by increasing the number of printing-presses to at least
eight, including the five already on hand. This resolution will be car-
ried into effect as soon as practicable. Another improvement is worthy
of notice. It was resolved that the Book Agents should have construct-
ed a new front to the Publishing House, built in modern style, and,
what is more important, a fire-proof roof, with parapet walls, etc.
This measure, for security against the devouring element, suggested,
doubtless, by the late disastrous conflagration in the immediate vicinity
of the Pubhshing House, will certainly meet with universal approbation.
There were, besides, numerous items of business, connected with the
Book and Tract department, discussed and acted upon ; but perhaps it
is unnecessary to mention them all in detail ; and I will only add here,
that important suggestions, made and adopted in reference to a system-
atic and expeditious filling of orders and transportation of boxes and
packages, will, it is believed, lead to practical results highly satisfactory
to the brethren and - friends who shall hereafter transact business
with the establishment.

I pass to the notice of the action of the Joint Board in reference to the
periodicals published at this point. The Nashville Christian Advocate
was reported to be in a healtliful and thriving condition. The cash
system of payment by subscribers is working admirably, and will be
adhered to without partiality — thus saving, annually, a large sum of
money. The subscription list of the Home Circle, it was reported, has
been increasing constantly, though as yet — shame on us, as a people! —
there are not quite five thousand names on the books. This will not do.
It is not creditable to the intelligence and taste of the Methodists in tho
South. The ladies, particularly, will be at fault — I dare to say it, even
if they shall frown — unless they take steps without delay to secure at
least twenty thousand subscribers. Heretofore excuses, not wholly un-

168 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITERATURE,

reasonable, have been offered ; but I am happy to state that the Joint
Board have, by their action, destroyed the possibility of repeating them.
They have requested the Book Agents to add sixteen pages to each
number of the Home Circle ; and I understand this improvement will
be made as soon as possible. The engravings, also, are to be more nu-
merous, and executed in the highest style ; and substantial means are
to be employed for securing contributions regularly from the pens of the
most popular and gifted writers among us. In view of these things, all
our editors and preachers and teachers, and every friend of the Church
and of sound religious literature in the South, should all subscribe and
make strong efforts to obtain subscribers for the Home Circle. By the
way, Mr. Editor, how many subscribers has this beautiful periodical in
the city of Charleston ? How many in Savannah — Augusta — Mobile ?
I might add the other cities east, south, and west. I could answer
these questions ; but I will merely hint that the country, by the aid of
the circuit preachers, is doing better, far better than the cities. These
must come up with their help, and that must improve greatly. Let all
work, and continue therein, till the Home Circle shall enter all our
households, the delight of all eyes, as well as one of the happiest means
of enlightenment and refinement.

The Sunday-School Visitor claimed and received the very serious and
earnest attention of the Joint Board. This sweet little messenger of
truth and grace, sent monthly to the children of the Church, I am
sorry to state, does not get patronage enough from those to whom it
carries tidings of life, peace, and joy, to pay its way through the world.
In other words, it is an actual expense to the Publishing House. And
what do you suppose has been done in this case ? Did the Joint Board
order its discontinuance? No, indeed. This must be done — never.
What then ? Why, very wisely and properly, they resolved that the
Sunday-Scliool Visitor should be doubled in size, and improved in other
respects, and at the same time be furnished at the old price. Here, Mr.
Editor, is a theme for you — the claims of the Sunday-School Visitor, as
enlarged, and otherwise rendered more attractive and worthy of the
patronage of the Sunday-School children and their teachers ; and I hope
you will urge its claims till they are heartily and fully honored all over
the land. " Peed my lambs," said the Chief Shepherd ; and here truly
is food convenient for them. Shall they starve, and we be guiltless ?

This is a world of changes. It is with great piin that I inform you of
the resignation of Rev. F. A. Owen, one of the Book Agents elected by
the General Conference. The reasons for this step I do not fully know,
though I am informed that Brother Owen's personal and private busi-
ness required his attention. After mature consideration the Book
Committee adopted resolutions accepting, with deep regrets. Brother
Owen's resignation, to take effect the 1st of May ensuing, and at the
same time tendering acknowledgments for his past efficient services,
and expressing undiminished confidence in his integrity and fidelity to
the important interests committed to his care. These sentiments are
fully indorsed by the brethren and friends here ; and we all feel that
the Publishing House is about to lose the services of an excellent
Christian gentleman, fully capable of managing the business intrusted
to him with prudence, energy, and "success. The Book Committee, I
presume, will, with the advice and concurrence of the Bishops, proceed,

BOOK AGE>T. 169

one day this week, to the election of a successor to Brother Owen. Of
their action on this subject, and any other matters of importance, I
will inform 3-ou at the earliest moment.

Last Sabbath, the various pulpits of our churches in the city and in
Edgefield were tilled by visiting brethren, and the services on the occa-
sion were highly edifying and pleasing to large and serious audiences.
Sabbath afternoon, a neat little temple in lower Edgefield was dedicat-
ed to the service of Almighty God. The sermon was preached by
Bishop Andrew — one of his warm, enlivening exhibitions of Divine
truths. May this sanctuary be the birthplace of many souls ! Morn-
ing and evening of the Sabbath, at Hobson Chapel, our minds were in-
structed and our hearts warmed by the Gospel, as ministered by Pro-
fessor Sassnett, of Emory College, and Editor McTyeire, of the XevB-
OrUans Cliristian Advocate. Last evening, at McKendree Church, I
had the pleasure of attending the services connected with the Anniver-
sary of our Sunday-School Union. Addresses, soul-stirring in charac-
ter and effect, were made by Rev. Dr. Huston, the CoiTesponding Sec-
retary, and by Bishop Andrew. There were earnest confessions and
humiliations on account of comparative failures (apparent in part and
excusable to a degree) in the past time ; and there were resolutions and
promises, looking to amendment and improvement in the time to come.
A handsome collection of money was obtained, and the congregation re-
tired, I think, with a deep and strengthened conviction of the essential
importance of the Sabbath-School cause, and of the necessity of greater
and fuller devotion of the part of the whole Church to the spiritual in-
terests of the young and rising generation.

The Missionary Board and the Educational Convention are now in
session ; and as soon as they have mat\ired business, I vrill report to
you. The meeting of these two bodies has brought together many
prominent brethren in the ministry and laity ; and it is believed that
the meas\ires adopted by them will contribute largely to the growth
and prosperity of the causes represented by them. W. C. J.

NashviUe, April 22, 1856.

[From (he same paper.']

Book Agent Elect.

Rev. J. E. Evans, of the Georgia Conference, has been elected Book
Agent, to fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Rev. F. A.
Owen. And the Rev. F. A. Owen has been elected a member of the
Book Committee, to supply the place of Brother Evans, who has re-
signed his position as a member of that Committee.

[From the XashviUe Advocate, Stpt 18.]

Book Agent.

We have the pleasure of announcing that the Rev. F. A. Owen has
been reelected Book Agent, to fill the vacancy occurring by the resig-
nation of Brother Evans. Brother Owen, in view of the pressing de-
mand, and owing to the fact that the principal cause demandinp his

170 60UTUEKN MKTHOmST LITEKATUBE.

resignation last spring having been removed, resumed his position, and
will enter upon his work on the first of Octobei*, at which time Brother
Evans purposes retiring.

[From the New- Orleans Advocate, Sept. 20.]
The new Book Agent . — I n and out.

From our Nashville correspondent it will be seen that Rev. J. E.
Evans has resigned his post, and Rev. F. A. Owen been reappointed.

The letter of resignation of Mr. Evans, to the Book Committee,
speaks kindly of his social and personal relations in the Book Concern —
these were all pleasant and calculated to hold true. But his conscience
was not easy :

"The Great Head of the Church has workmen suited to, arxd de-
signed for, every station in the vineyard. And while I am satisfied that
he has called me to preach the Gospel, he has some one well suited to
the responsible station now resigned."

Sound doctrine for a first-rate Presiding Elder and preacher, such as
he is known to be ; even a first-rate Agent is a poor exchange. Can't a
layman be found willing to have his salary fixed by the Church, and
feed out of the same portion with preachers, competent to such work?
This is our doctrine and has been.

Mr. Evans' letter shows him to have passed through painful exercises ;
and considering how long the subject has been before him, it seemed
hard to settle :

" Having consented to the appointment, I determined to try to he-
licve it my duty ; and to remove every thing out of my way that might
act as a consideration to induce the abandonment of my position. I pur-
chased a comfortable home for my family, and tried to feel settled.
But so far from relieving my doubts as to duty, they have ripened into
a profound conviction that my appropriate place is in the regular pastor-
al work of the ministry. You may well imagine that I have passed a
very trying ordeal in reaching the determination."

His return to the pastorate will be a rejoicing to Georgia Methodists —
however it may affect the Book Committee. We hope, however, he
will not preach such doctrine as the above extract. Do a thing and
then determine to try to Relieve it right ! Such casuistry would hardly
stand the test of Prov. 20 : 25 ; and of Romans 14 : 23. This yea
aaid nay style looks like trifling, where such great interests are involved.

The Quarterly Removed.

Believing that the circulation of the Quarterly Heview might be
greatly increased if printed at the Publishing House, and that it might
be done at much less expense than to hire its pubUcation at Richmond,
with the advice of the Book Committee, and the approbation of the
Editor, Dr. Doggett, the Agents have determined to remove it to Nash-
ville. The January number of the Quarterly will therefore be issued at
the Publishing House. All moneys due for the Quarterly may be re-
mitted to us, as well as all names of new subscribers. Let all those in
arrears remit us the amount by next mail, and let our preachers and

BECONL) AXTS'L'AL KXHIBIT. IVI

people resolve that the Quarterly shall live. Our brethren of the West
and South-west we hope will show us what can be done for it at its new
point of publication. Come, brethren, the Quarterly must be sustained.
Do we hear you say it shall be sustained ? We shall rejoice to record
your answer in the new subscribers and the cash for old and new.

Stevenson & Owen, Agents.
Oct. 1, 1856.

Second Annual Exhibit

Of the Financial Condition of the Southern Methodist Publishing

House.

ASSETS.

1. Real Estate, (in Nashville, Tenn.,) Grounds, Houses,

and Improvements, $47,834.66

2. Real Estate, (in Charleston,) Grounds and Houses,. ... 14,000.00

3. Fixtures, Presses, Type, Furniture, etc., 39,833.04

4. Stereotype Plates, 37,474.14

5. Engi-avings, Steel-Plate Likenesses, Wood-cuts, Casts

and Electrotypes, 8,140.50

6. Copyrights, 2,570.00

7. Material — Paper, Ink, Metal, etc., etc., 11,351.00

8. Sheet-Stock, in Ware-room and Bindery, 10,401.00

9. Merchandise, Book and Tract Stock, in Sale Depart-

ment, 44,783.75

10. Charleston Depository, 23,592.85

11. Richmond Depository, 24,881.26

Less Profit and Loss, 3,420.29 — 21,460.97

12. Bonds Receivable at New-York and Cincinnati, 104,019.38

13. Bills Receivable, 15,065.00

14. Due on Book Accounts, 102,643.00

Estimated loss on same, at 10 per cent, 10,264.00 — 92,379.00

15. Due on Nashville Subscriptions, 8,343.68

16. NexD-Orleans Christian Advocate^ 6,000.00

17. Texas Christian Advocate Loan, 1,024.58

18. Furniture in OflBces and Sale-rooms, 438.00

19. Cash on hand, 2,418.92

Whole amount of assets, $491,129.47

LIABILITIES.

1. BiUs Payable, $109,916.36

2. Due on Book Accounts, 32,977.78—142,894.14

Balance in favor of Southern Methodist Publishing

House, $348,235.33

Your Agents would further report, that since June 1st, 1854, they
Lave paid out in cash, as per order of General Conference and drafts of
Commissioners, namely : 1st. To Southern Commissioners including ia

172 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITEEATLRE.

penses, $4207.90; 2d. To counsel in Church suits, $0116.92; 3d. To
Bishops, on account of salary and travelling expenses, $21,671.22 — mak-
ing an aggregate of $31,996.05, which amount is now found in their ac-
count of profit and loss, but which would otherwise have appeared in
their present showing of available assets.

Stevenson & Evans, Agents.
Nashville, Tenn., Aug. 1, 1856.

Circular addressed to the Several Conferences.

Dear Brethren : We herewith present you our Annual Exhibit. It
has been made out with great care, from our books, and from an in-
ventory of stock and material on hand, at cost prices.

The Exhibit of last year showed a net balance of $329,849.67, The
present showing gives a net balance of $348,235.33 — making the net in-
crease of the year to be $18,385.66.

It is necessary, however, to a correct understanding of this apparent
profit., to state that in the Exhibit last year, the stock on hand, both
at this place and at Richmond, was reported at an estimated value. This
year, it is reported from inventory, at cost j^riees. Moreover, we have
received from the SoittJiern Christian Advocate the sum of $7500, profits
made by that paper. Also, a sura not less than $8000 has been made
available, and converted into our present assets, from the " Old Claims"
received from New-York and Cincinnati, not reported as assets last
year, and therefore should not be reckoned as profits of the business
in the present Exhibit. Indeed, the Agents are of opinion that, after
paying the losses sustained by the Quarterly Revieio and the Depository
at Richmond, in addition to the amount already paid to the Bishops, on
account of salaries and travelling expenses, as per order of the General
Conference, the business of the year will not more than pay expenses.
This, however, considering all the circumstances of the business, in its
formative state, is all that might have been reasonably expected.

In the Exhibit presented, no account has been taken of the assets and
liabilities of the Advocates, held as the property of the Church, but not
published at Nashville. The reports received from these papers incline
us to hope that, with proper management, and energy on the part of
the preachers to sustain them, they may be able to pay their own way ;
but we are not authorized to look for any profits from this source, ex-
cept from the Southern Christian Advocate. This paper has no liaMI-
ities, and shows reliable assets of at least $10,000 — we commend this
example. Nor has any notice been taken of the " Old Claims" from
New- York and Cincinnati, which have not yet been collected. These
claims arc so uncertain, that we have thought it best not to count them
as assets till collected, or otherwise made available.

We would invite the attention of the Conference to the necessity of a
vigorous individual and united cfibrt to extend the circulation of our
books and periodicals.

Our books should be brought to the doors of our people everywhere,
that they may read and be wise unto salvation. We must be a reading
people, or our piety will likely be fitful and unstable, Our books must
be scattered broadcast over the land, as an antidote to the demoralizing
literature of the day.

PKRIUDICAKS OF THK METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHrRCH. 173

All our periodicals should be sustained. Some of them must go down,
however, or be maintained at the expense of the Publishing House, un-
less their circulation be greatly increased.

The JHonie Circle and Sunday-School Visitor, surpassed by no period-
icals of their kind, are not paying their way. We believe that a proper
effort would very readily place these valuable monthlies in every family
of the entire connection, and make them a source of revenue to the
Church, and of much good to the people.

The Nashville Christian Advocate, the central paper of the Church,
without detriment to any other, should be circulated throughout our
whole bounds. The preachers especially should all take it, as it is the
medium through which the Agents acknowledge all moneys received,
and give notices of the shipment of books from week to week.

The Quarterly Review has but 16G1 subscribers, many of whom do
not pay. Unless something is done speedily to increase its circulation,
the Agents doubt the propriety of continuing its publication. It is
with you, brethren, to say whether it shall live or die. The merits of
the Quarterly should most assuredly commend it to the reading pub-
lic universally.

In conclusion, permit us to request your most hearty cooperation in
every department of the publishing interests of the Church. The
Agents have devolved on them a most fearful responsibility, and they
have many diflBculties to encounter, in the trust committed to their
hands. You must not expect too much of us, in this new Southern experi-
ment ; but be assured, that we shall do the best we can, to serve you
and the cause of our common Methodism, in the relation we sustain to
the Church. But after we shall have done the best we can, much must
still remain to be done. Confidently relying, however, upon the bless-
ings of the great Head of the Church, and the united support of the
ministry and membership, we look forward with hope to the triumph-
ant success of the publishing system of the Methodist Episcopal Church,
South. Stevenson & Evans, Agents.

Nashville, Tenn., Aug. 1, 1856.

Periodicals of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.

The Quarterly Review. Published at Nashville, Tenn. Edited by
the Rev. D. S. Doggett, D.D. |2 per annum.

The Home Circle. (Monthly.) Published at Nashville, Tenn. Rev.
L. D. Huston, D.D., Editor. $2 per annum.

Richmond Christian Advocate. (Weekly.) Published at Richmond,
Va. Rev. L. M. Lee, D.D., Editor. $1.50 per annum.

Nashville Christian Advocate. (Weekly.) Published at Nashville,
Tenn. Rev. J. B. McFerrin, D.D., Editor. $2 per annum.

Southern Christian Advocate. (Weekly.) Published at Charles-
ton, S. C. Rev. E. H. Myers, Editor. $2 per annum.

Memphis Christian Advocate. (Weekly.) Published at Memphis,
Tenn. Rev. S. Watson, Editor. $2 per annum.

New-Orleans Christian Advocate. (Weekly.) Published at New-
Orleans, La. Rev. H. N. McTyeire, Editor. $2 per annum.

St. Louis Christian Advocate. (Weekly.) Published at St. Louis,
Mo. Rev. D. R. McAnally, D.I)., Editor. $2 per annum.

174 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITEEATURE.

Texas Christian Advocate. (TVeekly,) Published at Galveston,
Texas. Rev. C. C. Gillespie, Editor. $2 per annum.

North-Carolina Christian Advocate. (Weekly.) Published at
Raleigh, N. C. Rev. R. T. Heflin, Editor. $1.50 per annum.

Sunday-School Visitor. (Monthly.) Published at Nashville, Tenn.
Rev. L. D. Huston, Editor. 25 cents per annum.

In addition to the above are several religious papers, not published
by any Conference, but devoted to the interests of Methodism. We
have seen the IIe7'ald of Truth published at Hendersonville, N. C, by
the Rev. Wm. Hicks, at $1.50 per annum, and the WeeMy Messafje,
in Greensboro, N. C, published by Mrs. Frances M. Bumpaxs, (the
widow of a Methodist minister,) at $1 per annum.

Literary Notices.

The Nashville Christian Advocate commenced its twentieth volume
with the issue of January 3, 1856.

The North- Carolina Christian Advocate issued its first number on
the 4th of January, 1856, from the press of A. M. Gorman, in the city
of Raleigh, under the editoral management of the Rev. Rufus T. Heflin.
Its price is $1.50 a year. In appearance and management it ranks in
the forefront of our Church papers.

[From the Kashville Advocate, Jan. 31.]

The Three Sisters : A Brief Sketch of the Lives and Death of Ann
Eliza, Hester Jane, and Laura Washington, daughters of the Rev.
Hartwell J. Perry, of the Kentucky Conference of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, South ; who were burned to death in May, 1854.
Edited by Thos. 0. Summers, D.D. Nashville : Stevenson & Owen.
1856. Pp. 135.

This is a tribute of parental affection to the memory of three lovely
daughters, who in a most tragical manner were hastened from earth to
their mansions in heaven. The reader will not only sympathize with
the stricken and bereaved father, but also admire that grace which en-
abled " the three sisters," under circumstances so fearful, to " pass
through death triumphant home." In preparing this " brief sketch" for
the press, the editor has made no material changes in the language of the
author, coming as it does from the depth of his heart. We hope the
valuable lessons inculcated in this volume will not be lost on the read-
er — particularly the youthful reader, for whose special benefit it has
been prepared.

[From the Nashville Advocate, Feb. 7.]

WiNANs' Discourses. — We have heretofore called attention to this
volume; but its importance demands a more extended notice. The
volume contains seventeen Discourses, some of which are much longer
than ordinary sermons. They are all evidently prepared with great care,

LITEKARY NOTICES. " 175

and are given to the public after much study and mature reflection.
The author did not design to bring before the reading world a volume
of sermons in the common acceptance of that tQrm, but rather to send
out a series of discourses embracing and elaborating the fundamental
doctrines of Christianity. The manner in which the distinguished
author has performed his arduous labor, can only be fully appreciated
by those who will take the pains to read carefully and study closely the
work. "We do not indorse all the opinions and sentiments of Dr.
Winans, yet we presume but few works have been presented to the
Church which, in the main, will be found to accord more fully with the
teachings of God's word. The book is suitable to lay alongside of those
profound works which should be found in the library of every biblical
student. The volume is large, containing nearly 600 pages. The
paper is excellent, the type large and clear, the binding substantial, and
the margin sufficiently broad to allow of copious notes by the attentive
reader. The Discourses are —

1. The Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, a Revelation from
God.

2. The Existence, Manner of Existence, Nature and Perfections of God.

3. Trinity in Unity in the Godhead.

4. On the Creation of All Things.

5. Of the Creation of Man, and of his Obligations to the Creator.

6. The Origin and Character of the Devil, and his Enmity to Man.

7. The First Transgression of Man, and its Legal Consequences.

8. The Moral and Physical Consequences of Man's Original Trans-
gression.

9. The Incarnation of Deity in the Person of Jesus Christ.

10. Paghteousness of the Life of Jesus Christ.

11. Death and Burial of Christ.

12. Resurrection of Christ.

13. The Ascension of Christ into Heaven, and his Intercession for Man.

14. The Holy Ghost and his Offices affecting the Salvation of Man.

15. Repentance towards God.

10. Salvation by Faith in Christ Jesus.
17. The General Judgment.

'o*^

The Discourses are on sale at the Southern Methodist Publishing
House, and, we are pleased to say, are in good demand. It is gratify-
ing to the many friends of Dr. Winans that he has consented to pub-
lish these Discourses. The substance of most of them he has delivered
during his long and useful ministerial career. The work will live when
its author shall have gone to his future reward.

[From the St. Louis Advocate, Feb. 7.]

The Western Harp. A Collection of Social and Revival Hymns. St.
Louis, Mo., published at the Methodist Book Depository. 1855.

The favor with which the above work has been received by the public,
argues well for its ultimate success. It has only been out a few months,
and we have now to prepare the third thousand for the spring trade.
It has been pronounced by good judges to be one of the best collections

176 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITERATURE.

of the kind extant. One hundred and seventy-two pages, good type,
good paper, and well bound, price forty cents, with twenty-five per
cent discount to preachers and wholesale purchasers.

A Scriptural Manual for Opening and Closing the Exercises of Sab-
bath-Schools, carefully prepared by a friend of Sabbath-Schools. St.
Louis: Methodist Book Depository. 1856.

This is a book of 159 pages, well printed on the best paper we have
seen used for any book published on this side of the Mississippi river.
It contains reading lessons, consisting of selections of Scripture bearing
on divers subjects, each lesson devoted to a particular subject. These
lessons are designed to be read at the opening of the school exercises
and following each is an appropriate hymn. There are also suitable
exercises for closing schools. Price, twenty-five cents per copy, or $2.50
a dozen, with ten per cent discount when bought by the dozen.

Orders are invited ; and it is confidently believed that when once tried,
the Manual will not soon be abandoned.

Sketch of the Past History and Present Condition of Methodism
IN St. Louis ; the substa,nce of a Sermon delivered at the Dedication
of Christy Chapel, Oct. 29, 1854. St. Louis : Methodist Book De-
pository. 185G.

Those desirous of seeing an accurate sketch of the history of the
Methodist Church in this city will do well to procure a copy of the
above. "Well printed on excellent paper ; printed covers ; price, ten
cents ; usual discount to those who buy to sell again.

[From the KashviUe Advocate, Feb. 28.]

Hykns for Schools and Families, specially designed for the Children
of the Church. Edited by Thos. 0. Summers, D.D. Nashville:
Stevenson & Owen. Pp. S84.

This is a beautiful 18mo edition — printed with rules, on superior paper,
and bound in muslin gilt. We think it will find favor among teachers,
who will consider it cheap at 50 cents, with 30 per cent discount to
wholesale purchasers. A smaller-sized edition, in plainer style, sells at
$10 per hundred. A large number of them have just been bound up.
for one of our colleges, and the Agents will be glad to fill orders to sup-
ply all the literary institutions under our care. Psalmody ought to bo
taught and practised in all our schools ; and to promote this interest
the present volume was compiled. It contains a large number of the
best hymns in the language on early piety, besides hymns on other sub-
jects, general and special. The total number is 600.

\From the New- Orleans Advocate, March 8.]

"Confessions of a Converted Infidel."

Not new — ^yet we had not seen a copy until last week, when one
reached us from the author, an esteemed member of the Virginia Con-

LITERARY NOTICES. 177

ference. The " Confession" leaves the impression of having been in a
good love-feast. It is eminently characterized by the spirit of love
and a sound mind. The same is true of several pieces before pubHshed
and here gathered in form. One on " Itching Ears" we gave our read-
ers a year age. Apropos, we clip the following from the Southside
Democrat, of Petersburg, Va. :

Confessions of a Converted Infidel. — (By Rev. J. Baylcy.)— A re-
markable instance of the triumph of truth over prejudice lately occurred
in a neighboring city, in relation to the above work, which was favor-
ably noticed some months ago. A friend to the author offered one for
sale to a gentleman, who from dislike to the writer of the book, turned
away in disdain and would not even look at it. Shortly afterwards,
this gentleman had an attack of illness and was confined to his room
several days at the house of a friend who owned a copy of the work.
As soon as he was well enough to read, he took up the book, and with-
out examining the title-page, read it entirely through, and was very
much pleased with it. " 'Tis the best book," said he, " that I ever read
in my life — and ought to be sold by thousands." But when he learned
the author's name, he exclaimed : " Pm caught, but I won't take back
what I have said. It is an excellent book."

[From the Nashville Advocate, March 20.]

Immersionists against the Bible ; or. The Babel Builders confounded,
in an Exposition of the Origin, Design, Tactics, and Progress of the
New Version Movement of Campbellites and other Baptists. By the
Rev. N. H. Lee, of the Louisville Conference. Edited by Thomas
O. Summers, D.D. Nashville : Stevenson & Owen. 1856. Price, 50
cents.

We deeply regret the necessity which exists for the publication of
such a work as the present volume. The exposure of Jesuitism, whether
Popish or Protestant, is a ta.sk so irksome that we instinctively shrink
from its performance ; but when it is needful to be done, he who per-
forms it in a candid, charitable spirit, deserves the gratitude of all con-
cerned. We think the author of the following pages has tempered un-
avoidable severity with the meekness of wisdom ; and that no one can
justly complain of a want of fairness and courtesy in the matter and
manner, tone and temper, of his production. The " tactics" of the im-
raersionist translators ought to be exposed, though the exposm-e is
humiliating to every lover of the Bible. The rampant sectarianism
which is at the head and front of the movement is too palpable, and, as
Mr. Lee shows, has been too often admitted to be denied with any credit.

[From the St. Louis Advocate, March 20.]

North-Carolina Christian Advocate. — In the tenth number of this
paper, it is announced that its list of subscribers numbered about tico
thousand seven hundred. This is better than we expected. When the
tenth number of the St. Louis Advocate was issued, the number of sub-
scribers was considerably below two thousand — now it has a list of
considerably over five thousand and increasing as rapidly as at any

178 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITEEATURE,

former period ia its history. But what screwing and scratching, man-
aging and working it has required to bring it on we know, but no one
else can tell. Sincerely do vA-e hope others may have easier times than
we have had — though we fear. There was not, and is not now in the
territory of the whole Church such an opening for a paper as is this
place. We saw it from the first — else we would not have been here.
Saw that a paper here was greatly needed — that there was an extensive
country to support it — that country rapidly filling up, and if proper in-
dustry were used a paper here must succeed. So it will. In the mean
time, success to all other papers of the Church, But our good brother at
Raleigh will, like the rest of us, find it requires patience and persever-
ance in order to success, and then it is not always certain.

[From the Home Circle for March."]

Twelve Sersions. By Charles F. Deems, D.D. New- York : Printed
by John A. Gray, for the Author. 1855.

A notice of this work — for a copy of which the author has our thanks
— should have appeared in our last issue, had there been room for it.
We regret the delay, as any thing so well calculated to arrest and re-
ward the serious attention of the young, seems especially desiderated
just now.

Dr. Deems is one of the most racy vrriters of our acquaintance, and
the public will expect to find in this volume a fine specimen of correct
and elegant rhetoric. In this they will not be disappointed ; but they
will find that its belles-lettres merits are, as they should be, the merest
accessories to the great end of preaching. When it became known to
us that these discourses were produced by a very young professor of
belles-lettres, which the author was at the time of their composition, wo
expected to find in them an undue amount of "fine writing." We
were agreeably disappointed. If there be anything of the sort in them,
it is not more than the reader will relish ; and we feel bound to say
that, as far as we have observed, every artificial merit they possess pro-
motes the religious purpose of the sermons. Every rill that sparldes
through them helps to swell the tide of the author's exhortation. Every
vine has its cluster. Every flower brings fi"uit.

[From the Nashville Advocate, April 10.]

The Great Iron AVheel Examixed ; or, its False Spokes Extracted, and
an exhibition of Elder Graves, its Builder ; in a series of Chapters.
By W. G. Brownlow, Editor of Brownloic's Knoxmlle Whig. Nash-
ville : Published for the Author. Pp. 331. $1, retail.

This is no ordinary book — indeed, it is a very extraordinary book.
It plunges into a controversy for which we have no taste. We have
never seen " The Great Iron Wheel ;" but from the quotations in this
volume, we suppose it is a very bad book. One thing is certain : Dr.
Brownlow makes a sad wreck of it. " Its false spokes extracted," what
remains we can not imagine. Dr. Brownlow seems to consider it his
special vocation to attend to such cases as this ; and if they must be

LITERARY NOTICES. 170

attended to, we do not know a man who is capable of doing up the
business more thoroughly than he. It is well, perhaps, that every bod\''
does not think and act as we do in regard to such traducers of Method-
ists and Methodism as are here castigated : we " let them tremendously
alone ;" the author of the present volume deals some of them tremen-
dous blows ; and we are assured by those who ought to be able to form
a correct judgment in the premises, that he has not performed a super-
fluous service. Not content with acting on the defensive, he carries the
war into Afi'ica — with what result the reader must determine. He
makes use of some weapons that we should not like to handle ; but then
we should not engage in the fight at all.

[Fro7n the Southern C. Advocate, May 1.]

A Discussion on Methodist Episcopacy, between Rev. E. J. Hamill of
the Alabama Conference, and Samuel Henderson, Pastor of Tuskegee
Baptist Church, and Editor of the South- Western Baptist. PubUshed
at the mutual request of Baptists and Methodists. At Charleston
Depository. Price, $1.

The Baptists damage themselves more than they do the Methodists,
except with bigoted sectarians, while endeavoring to put down the lat-
ter Church for its anti-rejniblican tendencies — as they pretend to have
found them. The Methodist body has proved its patriotism — there are
too many weU-known republican statesmen attached to this communiosi
for that draught to go down. We have before us a calm, dispassionate,
gentlemanly (rare indeed !) discussion of the question, to which, with
fuU confidence that our system is fi-ee enough for liberty, and stringent
only so far as healthy and united action requires, we call the attention
of those who may doubt on the subject.

Recognition in Heaven. By L. Rosser, A.M., of the Virginia Annual
Conference. 12mo, pp. 201. For sale at Charleston Depository.
62-2 cents.

Mr. Rosser is well known as an author, and we believe that this is his
best, as it is also his latest book. The subject is treated in a clear, forc-
ible style, beginning with the Immortality of the Soul. Nature, Reason,
and the Scriptures are laid under contribution — the position taken that
we shall know those we have not known — hence that the once known
shall again be known — and that there will be particular friendships in
Heaven. Objections are considered, and a consolatory and practical
application made.

[From the Nashville Advocate, May 15.]

Border Controversy ; or, A Review of a Pamphlet entitled " A De-
fense of the M. E. Church against the Charges' of Rev. S. Kelly and
others, of the M. E. Church, South, by Rev. W. Smith," etc. By
Staunton Field. Nashville: Stevenson & Owen. 1856.

This is a well-printed pamphlet of 78 pages: it contains a brief and
satisfactory resume of the grounds assumed by the Southern Methodist

180 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITEBATUKE.

Church in defense of its separate organization. The author is an esti-
mable minister of the Western Virginia Conference — stationed at Park-
ersburg, Va.

[From the St. Louis Advocate, May 22.]

A Pkactical Tkeatise on Church Finance, etc., etc. By Rev. W. M.
Prottsman.

This book has just made its appearance, and in matter and manner,
in style of printing and character of binding, with general appearance,
would do discredit to no person or place.

It is one of the very books the Chvirch and people need — ought to be
extensively circulated, read, studied, digested, and acted upon. It is
well calculated to do extensive good — will aid greatly in the support of
the ministry — in the support of the mission cause — the Bible, Tract,
and Sunday-school interests, in fact, of all the financial interests of the
Church.

We earnestly commend it to the attention of preachers and people.
Let it be scattered broadcast through the Church, and the effects will
soon be manifest. Price, 35 cents per copy — 25 per cent discount to
preachers and wholesale purchasers. Send orders to the Depository, at
this place.

[From the Nashville Advocate, May 29.]

The Great Sctppeb not Calvinistic : being a Reply to the Rev. Dr.
Fairchild's Discourses on the Parable of the Great Supper. By Leroy
M. Lee, D.D. Edited by Thomas 0. Summers, D.D. Nashville :
Stevenson & Evans. 1856. Pp. 354. Price, 50 cents.

This is a good book. It is well written. It is an unanswerable
defense of "the doctrines of grace," comprehended in the Arminian, as
contrasted with the Calvinistic system. The latter, embracing the " hor-
rible decree," savors more of wrath than of grace, as the author of this
treatise clearly demonstrates. We are sorry that there is any necessity
to engage afresh in the quinquarticular controversy ; but there is such
a necessity — it is forced upon us by the vigorous, zealous, and unre-
mitting efforts of our Calvinistic brethren to propagate their peculiar
and pernicious principles, and their misrepresentations of our views of
God's impartial love to the world. The book before us is well adapted
to do good service in this controversy, and we bespeak for it an extended
circulation. The subjects discussed are thus set forth in the table of
contents : Introduction — General Observations on the Parable^^The
Atonement : its SuflBciency — The Design of the Atonement — The Atone-
ment : its Design — Human Inability — Human Inability : Calvinistic
Theory — Human Inability : Impeachment of Methodism — Human In-
ability : Scripture Doctrine — Eternal Election — Election Explained —
Election Proved — Infant Election — Infant Damnation.

[From the Nashville Advocate, June 5.]

Joseph Bkown; or, the Young Tennesseean, whose life was saved by
the power of Prayer. An Indian Tale. Edited by Thomas 0. Sum-
mers, D.D. Nashville : Stevenson & Evans. 1856. Price, 25 cents.

The following beautiful and interesting tale was written by a lady of
Tennessee. She gathered her materials from authentic sources, and

LITEKAKY NOTICES. 181

wove them into a pleasing and edifying narrative. Joseph Brown, the
hero of the tale, is still living in the State of Tennessee — a noble speci-
men of those brave men who penetrated the forests and cane-brakes, and
broke the soil of this Western region —

" Where nothing dwelt but beasts of prey,
Or men as fierce and vpild as they."

What the pioneers and first settlers of the Western country had to
encounter, particularly in their exposure to the craft and cruelty of the
red men of the forest, no pen can adequately describe. Our young
friends, however, will be able to form some idea of it by the perusal of
this httle volume. The importance of youthful piety will also be im-
pressed upon their minds, by seeing it so beautifully exemplified in the
case of Joseph Brown.

[From the NasJiville Advocate, June 12.]

Ceremonies of Modern Judaism. By Herman Baer. With an Intro-
duction by Thos. O. Summers, D.D. Nashville : Stevenson & Evans.
1856. 18mo, pp. 248. Price, 40 cents.

Some portions of this work were published in the JSTeic- Orleans and
Southern Christian Advocate. They were read with great interest, and
the desire was expressed that they should be developed into a volume.
This has been done in a very satisfactory manner. The value of the work
is increased by several elegant and truthful pictorial illustrations. The
author is a Jew — a Hebrew of the Hebrews — yet a sincere believer in
Christ. As an educated Israelite, he is familiarly acquainted with the Cere-
monies of Modern Judaism ; and as an enlightened Christian, he knows
what estimate to place upon them. Though the author is a foreigner by
birth — a native of Germany — yet he has acquired a critical acquaintance
with our language, and uses it with as much facility and force as if it
were his vernacular- tongue. His familiar acquaintance with Kabbinical
Judaism, and his deep sympathy with the house of Israel, notwithstand-
ing his profession of Christianity, make his testimony in the premises
entirely reliable and peculiarly valuable. We have submitted large
portions of his book to the inspection of a learned Kabbi, who assures
us that he has found scarcely a point in it — not one of importance — to
which he could take exception. Indeed, we know not how he could, as
large portions of the work are faithfully translated fi'om Talmudical
writings which are accessible to the literati among the Jews ; and other
portions are derived from personal acquaintance with the religious cus-
toms of the Jews, the author in early life being quorum pars.

[From the Home Circle.]

The Annals of Southern Methodism, for the Year 1855. Edited by
the Rev. Charles F. Deems, D.D., of the North-CaroUna Conference.

There can be no sort of doubt ab»ut the success of this book. It will
have an enormous circulation. One can scarcely think of a question in
the last year's history of Southern Methodism which is not answered

.*82 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITERATURE.

here. The idea of making an annual contribution of this sort to our
literature is a happy conception : another egg stands on end ! How can
we, after this, do without it ? Why was it not thought of sooner ? The
editor's rare talents and tireless industry have been worthily employed;
and he is entitled to our thanks — not so much for the copy sent us, (we
could have bought it cheap, at five times the cost,) but for the invention
of the thing, and for the promise of an annual series. Every Southern
Methodist will need a copy of it

[From the Nashville Advocate, July 3.]

PisGAH — Views of the Promised Ixheritance. A Series of Disserta-
tions on the Unaccomplished Prophecies. By the Rev. Joseph Cross,
D.D. Carlton & Porter, New- York ; Stevenson & Evans, Nashville ;
E. H. Myers, Charleston.

This work is written in Dr. Cross's usual felicitous style. Of the
correctness of his interpretations and expositions the reader must be
his own judge. The author says : "The great foundation principle of
aU my expositions and arguments is that given by the learned Vestringa,
followed by Mede, Newton, Brooks, Bickersteth, and all the best ex-
pounders of prophecy, and so much insisted upon by Jeremy Taylor
and by the writers of the Reformation in their controversies with
Rome." In these stirring times, when the world, political and religious,
is so much excited by works on the Pcophecies, this book will be read
with interest. The author will accept our thanks for the copy now be-
fore us. The volume is well printed and neatly bound, containing about
300 pages.

{From the New- Orleans Advocate.^

Memphis Christian Advocate. — ^We are sorry to see the action of the
Publishing Committee so for as it loses to the editorial fraternity that
excellent member of it. Rev. J. E. Cobb. He handed in this note on
14th July :

Dear Brethren : I am informed by a resolution handed me by Bro.
Watson, your chairman, that you can no longer pay the salary of an
editor. Were I able, I should gladly continue my position as editor
without remuneration from our cherished Advocate, but my duty to my
family, who depend upon my personal labors for support, must, of
course, forbid my attempting such an undertaking. With my best
prayers and wishes for yourselves, and for the prosperity of the. Advo-
cate heretofore under my control, allow me, under the circumstances, to
offer my resignation to you, as the only persons whom I can now see
competent to accept the same.

Yours ever, in Christ, James E. Cobb.

The Committee regreting, as justly they might, tapart with liim, feel
obliged, for the sound reasons urged, to do so :

On motion by Brother J. E. Cobb, it was

Eesohed, That Brother Samuel Watson be requested to act as Finan-
cial Agent, in the room of the editor Just resigned, until the meeting of
the several Conferences having control of this Advocate.

Rev. Mr. Watson, one of the stationed pastors in Memphis, accepts
the post.

LITERARY NOTICES. 183

[From the Nashville Advocate.]

Fifty Fine Poems. Edited by Thomas 0. Summers, D.D. Nashville :
Stevenson & Evans.

Almost every one has an ear and a heart for poetry. We do not
mean that almost every one can make poetry — very far from it. There
are, however, few who at some period of their lives have not been
tempted to think they possessed the poet's faculty, if they would only
use it, or if their friends had the sagacity to discern it. This in most
cases, we apprehend, is a great mistake. To keep people from falling
into this error, they ought to be made acquainted not only with the
laws of poetry, but also with the woi-ks of the great masters of the art
divine. It is a misfortune, especially for young people, to read bad
poetry ; meagre verses beginning with capitals and ending with jingles,
prose run mad, or perhaps too dull to run at all, dragging its slow
length along ; or, what is still worse, a lofty and felicitous diction wed-
ded to a base and corrupting morality — ^bad poetry this, no matter how
fine the strain — the better the worse. The design of the present selec-
tion is to give our young friends a taste of genuine poetry. Not one of
these Fifty Fine Poems will be pronounced unpoetic by those capable
of determining what constitutes good poetry ; and not one of them will
be pronounced objectionable by the friends of religion and virtue,
This volume ought to accompany one which we have recently published
called " Fifty Beautiful Ballads." Price of each, 40 cents. '

[From the Nashville Advocate, Sept. 4.]

The Life of Mohammed. Kevised by Thos. 0. Summers, D.D.
Nashville : Stevenson & Evans. 1856. Price, 30 cents.

This volume contains a concise, judicious account of the great Ara-
bian impostor, and the politico-religious system which originated with
him. The reader will not be shocked with details of his flagitious and
licentious course, while he will not be left in doubt whether or not Mo-
hammed is to take rank with Moses and Jesus Christ, or the Koran
with the Bible ! The contents are as follows : Description and History
of Arabia — ^Life of Mohammed — Character of Mohammed — Religion of
Mohammed — History of Islaraism — Success of Mohammed accounted
for — Influence of Mohammedanism — The Prospects of Mohammedan-
ism — Conclusion.

[IVom the NashviUe Advocate, Sept. 11.]

Baptismal Demonstrations. By the Rev. R, Abbey. Edited by Thos.
0. Summers, D.D. Nashville: Stevenson & Evans. Price, 15 cents.

"We have just stereotyped a pamphlet bearing this title. Its character
is set forth in the introduction, from the pen of Dr. Hamilton, as fol-
lows : "All good men must sincerely wish that the time for contend-
ing about and magnifying the mere circumstances of religion had
passed ; tiiat the Church might be permitted to employ all its energies
in its appropriate work — the conversion of the world. But as long as

184 SOUTHERN' METHODIST LITERATDRE.

misguidea men continue to attach such undue importance to the mere
modes of religious ordinances as leads them to obscure and pervert truth,
disturb the faith and unsettle the piety of believers, and peril men's sal
vation, it will be the duty of those charged with the defense of truth and
the care of souls to resist these disturbers of the peace of Zion. Such
a state of things presents a painful view of the slight hold which the
plan of salvation has taken upon many professing Christians at this age
of the world, and the extent to which they have failed to enter into its
spirit and grasp its design. This evil wiU, no doubt, under the provi-
dence of God, be productive of good in the end. It is leading to a more
thorough investigation of the matters in debate in all their bearings,
and to such a development of the truth as will ultimately secure the
unity and harmony of the Church. The following essay is a valuable
contribution to this discussion, in a brief form. The author is distin-
guished for a logical mind, and he has employed it to good purpose in
this work. If the leading ideas should not be admitted to be strictly
original, the course of argument is believed to be entirely new, and we
think will be found satisfactory. It is very likely that those whose
partisan feelings approximate fanaticism will scout the argument of this
essay, for it will be much easier to do that than to answer it. But if
we do not greatly mistake, the thoughtful reader will have the fact
brought home to his mind, more clearly than ever, that the immersion
theory commences in assumption, and rests upon it throughout. We
commend its perusal to all.

Lectures on the Philosopht and Practice of Slavery, as exhibited
in the Institution of Domestic Slavery in the United States : with the
Duties of Masters to Slaves. By "Wm. A. Smith, D.D., President of
Eandolph Macon College, and Professor of Moral and Intellectual
Philosophy. Edited by Thos. 0. Summers, D.D. Nashville: Steven-
son & Evans. Kichmond : L. M. Lee. Charleston : E. H. Myers.
Price, $1.

These lectures were originally delivered in Randolph Macon College,
and afterwards repeated in various places, before numerous, discriminat-
ing, and approving auditories. They everywhere evince the intel-
lectual grasp and logical acumen of the distinguished author. The
volume is a duodecimo, elegantly printed in a bold type. We bespeak
for it a rapid circulation. A glance at the heads of the lectures will
show the interesting and important subjects on which they treat:
Lecture I. Introductory remarks on the subject of African Slavery in
the United States. — II. The Abstract Principle of the Institution oi
Domestic Slavery. — III. Objections considered. — IV. The Question oi
Rights discussed. — V. The Doctrine of Rights applied to Government.
— VI. The Abstract Principle of Slavery discussed on Scripture
Grounds, and Misrepresentations of the Principle Examined. — VII. The
In.stitution of Domestic Slavery. — ^VIII. Domestic Slavery, as a System
of Government for the Africans in America, examined and defended
on the Ground of its Adaptation to the Present Condition of the Race. —
TX. The Necessity for the Institution of Domestic Slavery exemplified
by Facts. — X. Emancipation Doctrines discussed. — XI. Teaching the
Slaves to read and write. — XII. The Conservative Influence of the
African Population of the South.— XIIL The Duties of Masters to
Slave?.

LITERARY NOTICES. 185

[From the Nashville Advocate, Sept 18.]

Headlands of Faith.

This is the title of a very neatly executed volume of 341 pages, pub-
lished by Stevenson & Evans, recently from the press. It consists of a
series of Dissertations on the Cardinal Truths of Christianity. By the
Rev. Joseph Cross, D.D. Edited by Dr. Summers. Here is a work
for the Bible student, and especially for every young minister. Dr.
Cross is an elegant and accomplished writer, and this is regarded by
some of his athnirers as the mo.st valuable production of his pen yet
given to the public.

Contents — Preface — The Supreme Existence — The Doctrine of the
Trinity — Jehovah Incomparable — Divine Compassion — The Word In-
carnate — The Mysterious Agony — The Great Substitution — Symbolic
Evangel — The Empty Sepulchre — The Return to Heaven — The Per-
petual Advocate — The Heavenly Paraclete — Angelic Agency — The
Human Heart — Innate Depravity — Salvation Conditional — The Sonship
of Believers — The Rejected Redeemer — The Doom of the Sinner. This
work should be extensively circulated and carefully studied.

The Causes, Evils, and Cure of Heart and Church Divisions.
Extracted from the Works of Burroughs and Baxter. By Francis
Asbury, one of the Bishops of the Methodist Episcopal Church.
Edited by T. 0. Summers, D.D. Nashville: Stevenson & Evans.
Price, 40 cents.

In the seventeenth section of the second chapter of the first part of
the Discipline of the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, entitled, " Of
the Necessity of Union among Ourselves," is this passage : " We re-
commend a serious perusal of The Causes, Evils, and Cure of Heart
and Chureli Divisions." This volume is the work here specified. To
put it within the reach of aU, we have brought it out in the present
neat and convenient style. Having been extracted from the writings of
those eminent divines, Messrs. Burroughs and Baxter, by one so
judicious as the venerable Asbury, and being formally recommended by
the General Conference in the Discipline of the Church, it would be
superfluous in us to do more than express the hope that our members
generally, and our ministers in particular, will peruse it with the serious-
ness which the subject suggests, and the grave and masterly discussion
of it demands.

Charity Superior to Knowledge. A Discourse delivered in the Cha-
pel of Centenary College of Louisiana, at Commencement, July 27,
1851, and published by request of the Joint Board of Trustees and
Visitors. By the Rev. Wm. Winans, D.D.

The Citizen of Zion : substance of a Sermon on Psalm XV., preached
on Sunday, Oct. 8, 1847, at Laurel Grove Camp-meeting, by the Rev.
Wm. Winans, D.D. Nashville: Stevenson & Evans.

A couple of strong sermons from a master in our Israel. Those
who have read the author's Discourses — a body of divinity — we pre-
sume will want to see these two, which are published at the instance of

186 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITERATURE.

the Book and Tract Society of the Mississippi Conference ; and those
who will read these sermons will want to procure — at least we hope
they wil^ — the volume in question. Why is it not placed in the house
of every Southern Methodist ? The pamphlets now noticed cost 10
cents each — the volume of " Discourses," $2.50.

The Hidden Life Exemplified in the Early Conversion, Pious Life,
and Peaceful Death of Mrs. FloriUa A. Cummings. By her Husband.
Edited by Thos. 0. Summers, D.D. NashviUe : Stevenson & Evans.

The reader of this work will find it an interesting and edifying bio-
graphy — a valuable addition to this department of religious literature.
The author — the Rev. A. W. Cummings, D.D., now President of Hol-
ston Female College, Ashville, N. C. — appreciates too highly the real
excellences of his sainted wife to allow of any thing like fulsome eulogy,
which so frequently disfigures the memorials of friendship and aflfection.
It is believed that nothing of this sort, ofiensive to good taste, will be
found in these pages. Mrs. Cummings was truly an excellent Christ-
ian lady ; and we hope the beautiful traits of her character, brought
to view in this volume, will elicit imitation on the part of all — and es-
pecially those of her own sex — who may give it a perusal. The some-
what episodical chapter on the rise and progress of education among
the Methodists is exceedingly valuable — well worth the 40 cents which
will buy the volume.

[From the North- Carolina Advocate.]

Roman Catholicism Scripturally. Considered ; or, the Church of Rome
the Great Apostasy. By Charles P. Jones, of the North-Carolina
Conference.

" Search the Scriptures." — Jesus.

" To the Law and to the Testimony." — Isaiah.

New-York : Published by M. W. Dodd.

Such is the title of a large duodecimo volume of 396 pages, on our
table, for which we are indebted to the author. The following is the
table of contents, omitting minor divisions :

Chapter L Prophetic announcements.

II. Source and Rule of Faith.

III. Docti-ines of the Church of Rome : Infallibility, Auricular Con-
fession, Priestly Absolution, Indulgences, Transubstantiation, Extreme
Unction, Purgatory.

IV. Practice of the Church of Rome : She is idolatrous ; she is in-
tolerant ; she is persecuting and blood-thirsty ; she is corrupt.

V. Spiritual and temporal supremacy of the Pope. Spiritual supre-
macy ; temporal supremacy.

VI. End of the Apostasy ; or, destruction of the Man of Sin.

The plan of the book is very clear and comprehensive. The filling up
is answerable to the design. The quotations are authentic and ample,
and are alone worth more to the general reader than the price of the
book. It contains a mass of information most important and interesting
to the student of theology, condensed into a comparatively small com-

LITERARY NOTICES, ' 187

pass, and adapted in manner, matter, and style, to the wants of the pub-
lic at large. The present attitude, and the rapidly increasing importance
of Roman Catholicism to the civil and religious interests of this coun-
try, demand from the masses greater consideration than has yet been
conceded. This book has some faults in style and phraseology ; but
they are not such as materially to impair its value, and can be easily
accounted for by the distance of the author from the place of publica-
tion. It is, upon the whole, the best Manual on Romanism, for general
circulation, we have yet seen. And while we might recommend it to the
favor of our readers, upon the ground that it is the production of a
Southern man, a native of North-Carolina, and a member of our own
Conference, we can safely commend it on its own merits. Purchase the
book: read it; and our word for it, you will get more than the worth
of your money. We trust it will obtain a rapid and general circulation,
especially within the bounds of the North-Carolina Conference.

{From the Nashville Advocate, Oct. 30.]

Wonders of Organic Life. Revised by Thomas O. Summers, D.D.
Nashville : Stevenson & Owen.

Here is, indeed, a book of wonders ! The vegetable and animal king-
doms are stocked and stored with the marvels and miracles of infinite
wisdom, power, and love. It is equally our duty and our delight to re-
gard the work of the Lord, and to consider the operation of his hands.
The phenomena of organic life, in numerous interesting particulars, are
happily brought to view in this admirable little volume. It has accord-
ingly afforded us great pleasure to revise it for insertion in our Sunday-
school and Family Libraries. The contents are as follows :— The Vital
Principle— The Blood— The Purification, of the Blood— Organic and In-
organic Matter Compared— Repose, or Sleep— Hybernation— Hyberna-
tion of Birds— Torpidity of Reptiles— ^Estivation, or Summer "Sleep-
Migration. Price, So cents.

[From the Nashville Advocate, Nov. 20.]

A Mother's Portrait : being a Memorial of Filial Affection ; with
Sketches of Wesleyan Life and of Religious Services : in Letters to a
Younger Sister. Especially intended for the Youth of Methodism.
By the Rev. Frederick J. Jobson. Illustrated by Twenty Engravings,
from Original Pictures by J. Smetham and F. J. Jobson. Revis'ed
by Thos. 0. Summers, D.D. Nashville : Stevenson & Owen.

The author of this beautiful biography is favorably known in the
Cnited States as a minister of the British Wesleyan Conference, having
visited this country as a representative of that "body, with Dr. Hanna,
in the General Conference of the Methodist Episcopal Church, held at
Indianapolis, during the present year. Mr. Jobson is a man of gener-
ous, benevolent, and catholic spirit — of artistic tastes and capacities, as
well as scholarly acquirements and habits — a most excellent, devoted,
and successful minister of the Lord Jesus—just what one might expect
him to bo, knowing hi.<* parentage. The Son has drawn the I^ortr-.it of

188 SOUTHERN METHODIST LITERATURE.

the Mother in a masterly manner ; and well did she deserve this memen-
to of filial aflfection. Mrs. Jobson was a fine specimen of the women of
Wesleyan Methodism. Her character can not be surveyed without ad-
miration — we would hopefully think, not without imitation too. By an
ingenious method, without diverting attention fi'om his Mother's Por-
trait, the author has given us a truthful and attractive picture of Me-
thodism, with descriptions of persons and places connected with its his-
tory. Some of the engravings — all of which are faithfully reproduced
by our artist — are from designs by Mr. Jobson, who has several times
visited the continent of Europe, particularly Switzerland, for the pur-
pose of sketching its peerless lake and mountain scenery. The Agents
have spared no pains to get up this work in the most handsome style.
It contains twenty admirable and costly engravings, making it, with the
subject matter of the volume, a capital holiday present. We hope it
will find its way, at least into every cultivated Methodist family.
Price, $1.

St. Peter's Chain of Christian Virtues. By the Rev. C. D. Oliver,
of the Alabama Conference, of the M. E. Church, South. Edited by
Thos. 0. Summers, D.D. Nashville : Stevenson & Owen. Price, 40
cents.

The author of this treatise is an estimable minister in the Alabama
Conference of the Methodist Episcopal, Church, South. He wi'ites in a
plain, easy, unambitious style — the edification of the reader being his
great design. The elements of Christian character are brought to view in
a striking light, as so many qualities in a compound, every one being
needed to give character and efiiciency to all the rest. The manner in
which this is to be done, and the importance of doing it, constitute the
material of this edifying treatise.

Methodism in Charleston : A Narrative of the Chief Events relating
to the Rise and Progress of the Methodist Episcopal Church in
Charleston, S. C, with Brief Notices of the Early Ministers who
labored in that City. By the Rev. F. A. Mood, A.M., of the South-
Carolina Conference. Edited by Thomas 0. Summers, D.D. Nash-
ville : Stevenson & Owen. Price, 40 cents.

The principal part of this work appeared in successive numbers of
the Southern Christian Advocate^ published in Charleston. A strong
desire having been expressed for its appearance in a book, the author
revised and enlarged it, and very kindly submitted it to our disposal.
Being a member of the South-Carolina Conference of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, and a native of Charleston, the preparation of the
work was a pleasing task to the author. He has not, however, unduly
magnified his subject. He has paid less attention to the graces of style
than to the faithful narration of facts. This is a matter of vast im-
portance in works of this class. By referring to old records, and by
consulting with old members of the Church in Charleston, he has se-
cured a great deal of reliable information concerning the introduction
and progress of Methodism in that city, which will not only be inter-
esting to the reader in its present form, but will also be available to

THE QUARTERLY REVIEW. 189

the future historian of the Church. The pictorial representations of
Charleston Methodist Churches, old and new, give additional interest
to the volume.

Sermon on the Christian Ministry; dehvered before the Kentucky-
Annual Conference, in Winchester, Ky., Sept. 18, 1856. By the Rev.
T. N. Ralston, A.M. Nashville: Stevenson & Owen. Price, 10 cts.

This sermon, making a pamphlet of twenty-three pages, has been
published by order of the Kentucky Conference. The author avows a
change of his views in regard to theological institutions — against which
he argues at considerable length in this discourse. Some who are not
in favor of their introduction into the M. E. Church, South, may not,
perhaps, indorse all of his arguments ; but we hope they will be duly
weighed, and the rather, as they are not presented in a polemical spirit.
We should deprecate a controversy on that subject.

The Great Commission; or. The Christian Church constituted and
charged to convey the Gospel to the World. By the Rev. John Har-
ris, D.D. With an Introduction by Thos. 0. Summers, D.D. Nash-
ville : Stevenson & Owen.

Of this masterly work it is not necessary to say much. The Intro-
duction gives a bird's-eye view of the Missionary operations of the
Methodist Church among the people of color in our Southern States,
partly as an offset to certain passages in the book which are not so well
adapted to our meridian and latitude, and partly as a matter of im-
portant information. The statistics of the principal Missionary Soci-
eties, noticed by the author, are brought down in the Introduction to
the present time ; and a revised and enlarged Index has been appended.
The constant demand for "The Great Commission," as a standard
Christian classic, justifies the labor bestowed on this new edition by the
Editor, and the expense incurred in stereotyping it by the Agents. All
Ministers and others interested in the Missionary cause — and what
Christian is not? — ought to have this great work. Price, $1.

The Quarterly Review.

The following articles appeared in the year 1856, in the Quarterly
Heview of our Church.

January. — 1. The Disposition of Tiberius Csesar and Marcus Au-
relius towards the Christians, (continued from October number, page
481.) 2. Chastel on Charity. 3. Christ, not Peter, the Rock. 4. The-
odore Agrippa D'Aubigno. 5. MuUer on the Christian Doctrine of Sin.
6. Philosophy of Methodist Itinerancy. 7. Brief Reviews. 8. Biblical,
Literary, and Religious Miscellanies.

Ajyril. — 1. The Chronology of Creation. 2. Spencer's Social Statics.
3. Prayer. 4. Scholastic Philosophy. 5. Views of Female Education.
6. Searching the Scriptures. 7. Biographical Sketch of Gieseler, the
Church Historian. 8. Ewald's History of Christ. 9. The Lighthouses
of the World. 10. Brief Reviews. 11. Biblical, Literary, and Religious
Miscellanies.

190 OUR PEOPLE OP COLOR.

CHAPTER IX.

OUR PEOPLE OF COLOR.

{Extracts from the Eleventh Annual Report of the Missionary Society.)
Missions among the People of Color.

This is one of the most important and interesting missionary fields
ocoupied by the Southern Church.

To us, as a Church, seems specially committed the great work of
preaching the Gospel to the slaves of our country. The great results
of these missions can not be told on earth — eternity alone shall fully de-
clare them.

How noble the work of our self-denying, self-sacrificing missionaries
in this field of missionary labor and toil ! Moved by the love of God
and love for souls, they go forth willingly and cheerfully, submitting to
the greatest privations and greatest trials, so that those might be saved
who could not otherwise be reached.

We are delighted to witness the increasing confidence everywhere
manifested toward these missions, and the willingness with which those
who are the owners of the slaves entertain and welcome our missiona-
ries. The field is constantly enlarging ; continued openings for new
appointments, and the formation of new missions, are presented. These
must be entered, and these fields must be occupied. Improvements are
constantly, also, being made as to the manner of conducting these mis-
sions, and greater attention given as to the proper kind of instruction
which should be afibrded. To the work of preaching the Gospel to this
large class of our population, we would again say we are pledged as a
Church ; and wc should, by our unwearied efforts and devotion to it,
prove our full conviction of its importance.

I. — St. Louis Conference.

In this Conference there is, in connection with the Church, a colored
membership of 1200 members. They have but few separate charges
from the whites.

II. — HoLSTON Conference.

In this Conference, as in the St. Louis, and many other Western
Conferences, the colored people mostly worship together with the
whites, in the same houses and at the same hours. There is in this
Conference one colored mission, Knoxville and Aluddy Creek: mem-
bers, 402 ; children instructed, 100.

TENNESSEE CONFERENCE. 191

III. — Tennessee Conference.

We give below an interesting extract from the valuable report of this
Conference. Perhaps there is no part of our work in which so much
attention is paid to these missions as in this Conference. Still greater
attention is called for in the report, and we sincerely hope that the
sound and practical views contained in the report shall be entertained
and practised upon by the Conference.

FranMin Mission. — This embraces portions of the counties of
Franklin and Lawrence, Ala. Rev. A. J. B. Foster labored here during
the year. He reports the work as being in a moderately healthy con-
dition. He had 10 appointments; returns 180 members; 15 or 20 have
professed saving faith in Christ during the year ; 10 were received into
full membership ; 100 children have received catechetical instruction,
and 25 children and 10 adults received the sacrament of baptism ; $375
were contributed in support of the missionary. All things considered,
we fear the work of pious instruction has been greatly diminished, in
this mission, within the past few years. There is a cause, and it should
be sought out and the evil removed, if possible. The mission should
be continued.

Stone^s River African Mimnn. — This lies in Rutherford county, Tenn.,
and has been served by Rev. W. M. Shaw. The number of members is
412 ; conversions during the year, 50 ; received on probation, 47 ;
amount contributed to the support of the missionary, $242.75. This
work, we think, gives signs of vigorous life, and should be continued.

The Marshall Mission is located in the vicinity of Cornersville, Tenn.,
and has 9 appointments. It was created last year, and has been served
by Rev. Golman Green. He reports 129 members, and 63 probationers.
The missionary has access to about 1200 slaves in the bounds of his
work. There have been 25 or 30 conversions during the year. The
owners take an interest in the mission, and we are of opinion it should
be continued.

The Limestone African Mission has appointments, 18 ; membership,
292 ; probationers, 27 ; baptized adults, 6 ; infants, 28 ; missionary
money received, $264.50 ; travelled by Rev. W. P. Warren. We re-
commend its continuance.

Rutherford African Mission, served by Rev. E. Carr ; converted, 22 ;
joined, 55 on probation ; baptized children, 103 ; baptized adults, 45 ;
catechised 218 colored children; 1 temperance society, 132 members;
had 14 appointments part of the year; left 12 to be filled; 5 churches ;
school-houses ; 3 farms ; whole number of members, 255 ; moneys
from the mission, $108.10.

The work among the colored people, as your Committee believes, has
suffered greatly from two considerations. First, because of the frequent
change of the policy in their mode of instruction. At one time they
are served by the regular pastors, who have charge of circuits and
stations ; then they are thrown into missions, and then back again into
the regular pastoral work. Now they are sustained by the contribu-
tions of the people, and then they are thrown upon the Missionary
Society for support. Thus tossed from one position to another, they

192 OUR PEOPLE OF COLOR.

suflfer much loss, and the work has been greatly retarded. A second
cause of a partial failure is found in a want of faithful catechetical in-
struction. The mode of instructing the negroes should be somewhat
peculiar. They need to be taiigld. Merely rousing them to excitement
is not sufficient — they must be indoctrinated into the elementary prin-
ciples of our holy religion. The work of preaching to and teaching this
class of our population must be steady, uniform, and patient. We re-
commend that a well-digested plan be adopted, both as to the support
of these missions, and the mode of instructing the negroes ; then, by
the blessing of God, may we look for prosperity. A negro mission
should not be regarded as a sinecure — a place to which our Bishops
may send men because they are fit for no other work, or can not be era-
ployed in any other field. You want for these missions men of intelli-
gence, zeal, and prudence — men who love souls more than they love
ease and self-indulgence.

Missions a/nd MieMonarios. C. M. Chs.

Nashville, 636

Lebanon and Sumner, .... 841

Stone River, 322

Huntsville, 119

Limestone, 212

Franklin, 100

Richland, 293 . . .

"Whole number, 2523 . . 2 1275

IV. — ^Virginia Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. O. M. Chs. 3. ScJis. Child'n.

Union, 344 1 1

Bate Street, 775 . . . . 150

Portsmouth, 507

Princess Ann, 275

Roanoke,

Buchanan,

&Schs.

Child'n

160

360

100

500

155

Whole number, 1901 1 1 150

V. — Arkansas and Ouachita Conferences.

We have no correct returns as to our missionary work among the
colored people in these two Conferences. There are 2808 colored
members in the two Conferences. We hope to receive special reports
jfrom both the Conferences as to their missions among the slaves.

VI. — Memphis Conference.

This Conference continues to manifest great attention to the colored
missions vrithin her bounds. They have the following missions.

AlISSISSIPPI COJSrEREMCE.

193

Missions a/hd Missionaries.

C. M. Oha. S. Saha. 0/iUd'n.

W'csley Charge, . . . J. E. Cobb, 114

Asbury, R. H. Jones, 129

Lagrange, J. W. Walkuj), 315

Holly Springs, H. A. Reeves, 136

Paducah, 85

Brownsville, J. G. Ilcnning, 393

Sommerville, J. H. Priddy, 123

Coffeevillc, J. W. Bates, 71

Prairie, J. Young, 751

Salem, A. Freeman, 130

Randolph, L. Adams, 193

Aberdeen, W. L. Bonner, 182

Holly Springs and

Byhalia, W. G. McGaughey, 572

Commerce, A. Sage,

MarshaU, W. S. Dickey, 292

350

230

120
100

Whole number, 3485

1500

8 2300

VII. — Mississippi Conferenci;.

Missions and Missionaries.

CM.

Cole's Creek, 732

Camel, 200

Springfield, 334

Wilkinson, 1020

Cha.
2

ChUdrn.
200

Jackson,

Feliciana,

Warren,

Vicksburg, . . . ,
Rocky Spring, .
Bear Creek, . . .

Rankin,

Pearl River, . . .

Jasper,

Aui'ite,

Black Fork, . . .

Vernon,

Midway,

Mt. Willis, . . . .

Canton,

Big Black,

Honey Island, .

Sharon,

Rolling Fork, . ,

Whole number, . .
13

251
130
58
254
460

lii

159

247

185
280

106
428
295

5295

150

350

194

OUR PKOPLE OF COLOK.

VIII. North-Cakolina Conference.

Miaeiona and Missionaries. O. M.

Cape Fear, 365

Newbern, 965

Beaufort, 121

Bladen, 947

Halifax, V3

Raleigh, 240

Whole number, 2711

Chs.

ChUcPn.

IX. East-Texas Conference.

Missions and Missiotiaries. O. M,

Harrison, 340

Clarksville, 14

San Augustine, 54

Whole number, 408

Gha.

ChiUCn.

X. South-Carolina Conference.

The field occupied by the missionaries of this Society is wide-spread,
and is sending up year after year calls for increase of laborers, and con-
sequent enlargement of effort. Our missions lie principally along the
seaboard, stretching from the southern part of Horry District to the
Savannah river, and reaching inward from three to some twenty-five
miles from the shore. Besides, there are six missions higher up the
country : five on the Santee and its tributaries, one on the Peedee.
There are also others in the mountainous parts of our Conference Dis-
trict, and another at Graniteville and Aiken. These three are our only
missions to the white population.

After enumerating and giving reports from the missions severally, tlie
report continues :

An evil of no little magnitude is the great amount of labor performed
by the missionaries to the blacks, in proportion to the extent of terri-
tory and the number of persons within their missions. This too is
pressed into each Sabbath-day, making it very fatiguing and wearing to
the minister. Preaching on each plantation has produced this censur-
able state of things ; insomuch that in places where a single house of
worship would sei've thi'ee to five plantations, the missionary, besides
the riding or walking required, has to preach three to five times, and
this when all experience shows that one sermon to the whole, gathered
in a neighborhood church, would convey the Gospel to all just as effect-
ually and far more usefully. In view of the scarcity of ministers, this
evil should be discontinued ; it should be discontinued in view of the
deficiency of funds, (of which more anon ;) above all it should be dis-
continued because of the unwarrantable physical damage to which it

SOUTH-CAKOLIXA COXFERKNCK. Htf-

subjects worthy, devoted laborers in this field — arduous, at best. Now
and then there is a single plantation where a congregation of five hun-
dred persons or more may be assembled, to which, of course, these
remarks have no reference.

Nor is there, as some have supposed, the slightest evil in the people
from different plantations coming together for Divine worship on the
Sabbath. The proof of this, against all opposing theories, is the fact
that such assemblies have been held for years in different neighborhood
churches ; as instances of which it may be stated that there is such a
church on Waccamaw Neck, another on the Peedee, two on Black River,
one on the Ashley, one on Pon Pon, one in Prince \^illiam's Parish,
another on the Okatee ; from none of which has come up the least com-
plaint in any way. On Combahee the planters are joining in building
churches ; on Pon Pon mission, two additional churches have gone up
recently ; one is in course of erection on St. George and St. Paul's mis-
sion ; and the same is true of other places. This system of church -
building for neighborhoods must go on in this interesting field, or our
labors among the slaves must be greatly hindered, and rendered propor-
tionately inefficient. The unnecessary time, labor, and expense result-
ing from the system of plantation-preaching may be seen when it is
stated that, on one of our missions, which need not be named, the
building of three such churches as here referred to, in addition to one
already in use, would enable one man to do efficiently the service now
done by two, and with less fatigue and exposure than either of the two
now has to undergo. On this same mission the amount of money con-
tributed did not reach $300, while the sum expended amounted to
$1000. Nor is this an isolated case. "Well then may we be excused
for seeking with the most emphatic earnestness, yet with sincere respect,
to urge this subject on the attention of proprietors on these missions.

Another subject of absorbing concern is our monetary affairs. The
Board of Managers so entertain the fear that very many are entirely
ignorant, or but partially informed, as to induce and warrant a plain
statement in brief of the whole matter.

The entire amount conti'ibuted from all our missions to the colored
people for the past year was $5716, while nearly $16,000 were
expended.

The sum collected for our missions comes, of course, from the planters
whose slaves are served by our missionaries stationed among them.
The excess of expenditure above this — say $10,000 — is collected in our
circuits and stations from persons who can feel no more interest in the
people served than they do in the inhabitants of China — indeed scarcely
so much, for they believe that the owners of these slaves should pro-
vide the gospel of salvation for them as well as for any other part of
their households ; leaving those who have no special interest in this par-
ticular service to give their missionary contributions an entirely different
direction — and the more so as many of the contributors own no slaves,
while not a few of them are pious slaves themselves, owned not in the
missions, but in the circuits and stations. AVere this entire expense
lull}'' met on the missions where alone it properly belongs, the $10,000
appropriated to meet the deficiency, would be a very handsome item in
tlie treasur)'- of the Parent Society toward defraying the expense of the
Indian, German, and China missions of our Church, besides aiding in

196 OUR PEOPLE OF COLOR.

missions to poor and sparse neighborhoods among the white population
of our own widely extended land. Each person on our missions un-
doubtedly must determine for himself what amount it is proper for him
to contribute to this object ; and there are those who perhaps do as
much as they should. Such persons must deijlore the state of things
here referred to, nor is it beUeved that any one concerned would submit
to it longer, were the matter fairly presented and properly understood.

The Society as well as the patrons of the missions should be further
informed that at each session of our Conference a judicious committee,
with the presiding bishop at its head, takes into consideration the num-
ber and ages of every missionary's family, the place of his -residence,
and all other circumstances, and, in view of the whole, estimates what
amount is necessary for his support. This estimate never approaches
extravagance, but is always within a frugal limit. The salaries thus
provided for, are now paid out of funds indiscriminately collected by
the Society from missions, circuits, and stations. With a little care and
concert on the part of the planters in each case, we can not doubt that
most, if not all, our missions to slaves would meet this expense, each
for itself.

But we have referred to the aggregate deficiency; and aggregates
touch nowhere. We present, therefore, a list of our missions, with the
amount collected and that expended, showing the deficiency in each
mission ; and we do this without the slightest dishonorable censure in
any case, fully believing, as we do, that these deficiencies result from
the causes mentioned ; namely, absence of proper inforijiation, or vrant
of care and concert, or both.

Missions. Canir'd.

Cooper River, $102

St. Andrew's, 206

St. George's and St. Paul's,

PonPon, 477

Ashepoo and Combahee, 906

Prince William's,

Savannah River, 222

Okatee, 239

Edisto and Jehossee, 295

Beaufort and P. William, 274

Santee, 280

Sampit, 810

Black River and Pee Dee, 292

Blackmingo, 330

Waccamaw Neck, 358

Society Hill, 170

Liberty Chapel, 75

Congaree, 342

Upper Santee, 285

Wateree, 311

Dutchman's Creek 242

Tiger River,

Total, $.5716 $15,375 $9559

JEcep.

Def.

$700

$598

300

550

700

223

1425

519

650

1000

778

400

161

900

605

900

626

600

320

600

290

1050

758

600

270

900

542

300

130

300

225

650

308

650

365

1300

98!)

300

600

000

ALABAMA CONFERENCE.

19-

Add for the superintendents of these missions $550, and it swells the
deficiency to more than $10,000.

Surely this state of things will not be suffered to continue. When
our missions become self-sustaining, which we trust shall soon be, the
South-Carolina Conference shall have reached a proud preeminence in
missionary enterprise, from which we shall fear no receding.

It is highly gratifying in this connection to be able to state that the
Ashepoo and Combahee mission, the Pon Pon mission, and the Liberty
Chapel mission, intend to provide for the support of the missionaries to
be sent to them.

Missions and Missionaries. CM.

Waccamaw, 609

Black River and Pee Dee, 1405

Sampit, 179

Santee, 757

Black Mingo, 2G0

Cooper River, 640

St. Andrew's, 330

Edisto and Jehossee, 678

St. George's and St. Paul's, ...

Pon Pon, 592

Combahee and Ashepoo, 784

Prince "WiUiam's and Beaufort, 330

Oakatee, 217

Savannah River, 496

Congaree, 267

Wateree, 872

Dutchman's Creek,

Upper Santee, 723

Liberty, 157

Society Hill, 143

Tiger River,

"Whole number, 9837

W. M. Oils. ChildCn

390

100

358

• •

200

250

214

i • • •

, ,

160

• •

150

• •

'. 182

, ,

455

550

• •

240

280

390

• • •

.'. 125

230

567

4085

XL Alabama Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. C. M.

Mobile, G. Garrett, 550

Little Zion, G. Garrett, 190

Areola, J. Williamson, 41 1

Dayton, A. McBryde, 388

Cottonwood, E. Baldwin, 40

Prairie Bluff, T. Burpo, 176

Prairie Hill, W. Riley, 78

Plum Creek, E. Callaway, 188

Bogue Chitto, R. Y. Rew, 150

Sumterville, L. M. Boyd, 29

Belmont, R. Milton, 150

Greensboro', J. DuBois, 124

Chs.

ChiLd^n

150

, ,

350

335

181

175

153

• •

• t

198

OUR PEOPLE OF COLOK.

Missions and Missionaries. 0. M. Ohs.

Prairie Creek, J. C. Huckabee, 645

Columbus, B. F. Reader, 140

YorkviUe, W. E. Cameron, 376

Talladega, E. Patton, 246

Ocmulgee, P. McCrary, 268

Montgomery, J. "W. Brown, TOO

Catoma, J. C. Stricklin, 185

Andrew, C. N. McLeod, 139

Uchee, F. H. Wardlaw, 876

Big Swamp, A. Skinner, D. Malory, . . 332

Glenville, W. H. Carter, 428

Hatchie Chubbee, L. Patterson, 231

Oswichee, A. S. Andrew, 145

Chunnenuggee, A. Tatum,

Barbour, J. W. Jordan, 81

Otho, A. Grantham, 207

Chipola, J. P. Lorkey, 250

Black Bend, E. Hearn, 150

German Creek, A. R. Ramsey, 180

Clark, R. Forrester, 47

Perote, M. Pagett, 106

Whole number, " 8206 12

ChUd'n.

200

200
80

200

lie

450
359
143
136
70

156

3581

XII. Florida Conference.

Missions and Missionaries. G. M.

Leon, J. Peeler, 232

Lake Lafayette, J. B. Jeffcoat, 81

St. lUa, G. A. Malleth, 383

Gadsden, R. S. Tucker, 268

Baker, D. Roberts, 130

AuciUa, W. W. Griffin, 183

Alachua,

Whole number, 1277

Cha.

Child>n
568
125

100

200

983

XIII. Louisiana Conference,

We make the following valuable extract, in reference to our colored
missions, from the report from this Conference :

It is stated upon good authority that the number of colored members
in the Church, South, exceeds that of the entire membership of all the
Protestant Missions in the world. What an enterprise is this committed
to our care ! The position we, of the Methodist Church, South, have
taken for the African, has to a great extent cut us oif from the sympr.thy
of the Christian Church throughout the world ; and it behooves us to
make good this position in the sight of God, of angels, of men, of
churches, and to our own consciences, by presenting before the throne

TEXAS CONFERENCE.

199

of His glory multitudes of the souls of these benighted ones abandoned
to our care, as the seals of our ministrj. Already Louisiana promises
to be one vast plantation. Let us — we must — gird ourselves for this
heaven-born enterprise of supplying the pure gospel to the slaves. The
great question is, How can the greatest number be preached to ? The
building roadside chapels is as yet the best solution of it. In some
cases, planters build so as to accommodate adjoining plantations ; and
by this means the preacher addresses three hundred or more slaves,
instead of one hundred or less. Economy of this kind is absolutely
essential where the labor of the missionary is so much needed ami
demanded.

On the Lafourche and Bayou Black Mission-work, several chapels are
in process of erection upon a plan which enables the slave, as his mas-
ter, to make an offering towards building a house of God. Instead of
money, the *' hands" subscribe labor. Timber is plenty ; many of the
servants are carpenters ; upon many of the plantations are saw-mills.
Here is much material ; what hindereth that we should build a church
on every tenth plantation ! Let us maintain our policy steadily. Time
and diligence are required to effect substantial good, especially in this
department of labor. Let us continue to ask for buildings adapted
to the worship of God, and set apart ; to urge, whenever practicable,
the preaching to blacks in the presence of their masters, their overseers,
and the neighbors generally.

There are in the bounds of the Conference 9 missions to the slaves,
including 2826 members, and 730 children under catechetical instruc-
tion.

Missions and Missionaries. O. M.

New-Orleans, 1232

Chs.

Chiid'n.

Lafourche,

St. Landry,

Baton Rouge,

Rapides, ,

Caddo, .

Bastrop,

Monroe,

Richmond and Madison, ,

Natchitoches,

Jackson,

882

200

250

190

336

200

343

Whole number, 3638

XIV. Texas Conference.

This Conference is giving increasing attention to the colored missions
within its bounds.

Missions and Missionaries. O. M. (Jh9

Galveston, C. C. Gillespie, 100 1

Houston, L. B. Whipple, 109 1

Union Chapel, W. C. Lewis, 136

Oyster Creek, W. Holt, 136

Chiid'n.

200 OUR PEOPLE OF COLOR.

Missions and Missionaries. C. M. Chs. ChilcPn.

Richmond, J. McLeod, 100

Brazoria, R. J. GiU, 128

Egypt, J. C. Kolle, 44

Washington, S. Johnson, 191

Brazos, T. Woodridge, 65

Caldwell, J. W. Devilbiss, 31

Whole number, 1040 2

XV. Georgia Confekexce.

The Board recommend that the following missions be discontinued,
because of the disproportion between the expenses incurred and the
want of success in the operations : Worth niission. Fair Haven, Mor-
ganton, and Jefferson colored mission.

They advise the establishment of the following new mission-fields :
Macon City mission ; Elijay to be divided, and a new mission, called
Fort Hembree, made out of a portion of its territory. They advise that
Columbus colored charge, and city mission be imited ; also a new mis-
sion to be called Etouah.

By a resolution of the Board, at the last session of our Conference,
the writer of the Annual Report was restricted to the doings of our
Missionary Society, and with reference to our Conference missions.*
The writer entirely accords with this resolution, and hence his apology
for the absence of an essay on the general subject of missions is found
in that advice. The Board are not to be understood as indifferent to
Foreign Missions, and the great need of cultivating enlarged views in this
direction ; but they wish it to be well understood what they have done,
are doing, and propose to do — this being necessary to increasing the
supplies of men and money, not only for the foreign work, but for home
purposes.

Your Society is auxiliary to the General Missionary Society of the
Church, and as such it is expected that something be done in its aux-
iliary relation. But the lamentable fact must be told that the Georgia
Conference — the largest, and probably richest, in the connection —
has not, for two years past, raised missionary money enough to supply
its home missions with laborers. The missionary treasiu^er has had
to pay a deficit of about $700 for the two past years to support our
missionaries ; and this reproachful fact is likely yet again to be seen,
unless our Society awake to a sense of the shame which attaches to our
Conference and people, and by a due estimate of their abundant means
remove the imputations of illiberality and avarice, which are the only
conceivable reasons of this repeated deficiency.

The Georgia Conference has never raised over $18,600 ; and on an
average, only $16,116. For the year just past, $16,972 was used, and
nearly an equal amount will likely be demanded for the ensuing year ;
while the collections of last year did not meet the sum expended by $70,
and the collection for the present year is about $16,905, of which so

* A very sensible resolution. — Ed. Annals.

GEORGIA <)0?O'ERENCE. 201

much has already been absorbed for past services, that only about
$7500 is left for the ensuing year, making a real deficiency of perhaps
$8000 or $10,000 for home work.

Now, shall this be so hereafter ? Let the several preachers answer
next Conference, from their various fields of labor. The Board know
this state of humihation can be removed, if diligence is used by every
preacher in his charge. We need not advert to the incentives which
ur^e us forward. The poverty and sin and ruin of the black race
among us call for philanthropic and Christian benevolence— active and
constant efforts in their behalf. Many of our missions, probably most,
are to the blacks ; these missions are usually supplied by young and
often inexperienced men, and often altogether from the Treasury;
while in nearly every case the owners of these slaves should meet tlic
incurred expenses. They must be reached, or finally this department
will be from necessity abandoned. Liberal views must be proposed and
extended before the multitudes of semi-heathen in our State will have
the needed Christian culture. They need preaching, catechizing, pas-
toral oversight, and special moral teaching, to insure their spiritual
elevation. Let the Society remember the extent of this work ; and
while territorially it is constantly enlarging, observe that our means are
decreasing, and from the last-mentioned fact (illiberahty) they must see
that while much and more is called for in supplies, less and still less will

be yielded. . .

Many are willing to give liberally to support missions among the
destitute white settlements and pagan lands, who feel no desire nor ob-
ligation to pay a missionary for services in a settlement or country
where the wealth of State and Church abounds. Right or wrong, this
is so ; and must get worse, unless arrested.

It is submitted for your consideration whether it is fair to raise money
by stirring appeals for the heathen, and from year to year expend the
whole amount in our own bounds, and then put our claims into the
general treasury, for balance to supply a deficiency, and that in reputed-
ly the strongest and wealthiest Conference in our Church. We doubt
the truth of the old adage, charity begins at home— we think it should
certainly sometimes go abroad, if even this is not its more legitimate

work. CI • i.

The Board are glad that in every regard, except finances, our bociety
is doing much. Most of the Negro missions are said to be in a thriving
state, spiritually. Members have been added, though not in great num-
bers. Children are catechized to a small extent, but still with consider-
able reference to this important department of moral culture. Let us
improve in this matter, and also in plantation services — two things ma-
terial to great success.

The missions to the whites are generally doing well ; some of them
are now self-sustaining charges, and as soon as any can be made so, the
Board advise the course.

With these painful and pleasing reflections we commend the cause to
God and the Society.

Missions and Missioiuiriea. CM. Cha. OhilcPn.

.\ndrew Chapel, J. E. Godfrey, 366 1

Scriven, A. J. Dean, 465 . . Ill

202

OUR PEOPLE OF COLOK.

Missions a/nd Missionaries. C. M.

Augusta, J. M. Armstrong, C93

Columbia, 159

Broad River, H. Cranford, 260

Elijay, T. B. Harben, 99*

Randolph, T. R. Stuart, 150

Talbot, J. P. Dickinson, 194

Ocmulgee, J. Dunwoody, 267

Sumpter, W. M. Watts, 100

Chattahoochee, J. T. Turner, 400

Mcintosh, 60

Upson, M. Bellah, 149

Athens, N. H. Palmer, , 140

Troup, W. D. Matthews and D. W. ) ^83
Howell, )

Bethel, M. H. Hebard, 400

Harris, 470

Kingston, 455

Green, 265

Macon, J. M. Dickey, 278

Jeflferson, 261

Fort Valley, 275

Knoxville, 206

Etowah, 186

Culloden, '430

Knoxville, 177

Merriwether, 450

Whole number, 7633

Ohs.

aiiild'n.
40

132

50
150

257

132

200
200

160
325

125

2086

An Incident.

The Rev. Dr. Sehon gives the following incident as occurring during
his attendance upon the Georgia Conference in 1855.

It was on Sabbath afternoon ; the sun was about setting, when 1
visited the graveyard in La Grange. I stood at the grave of the Hon.
H. Haralson : by my side was his daughter Carrie, said to be much like
her departed father. We said not a word as we looked in sadness, and
yet joyous hope, on his and the graves of his dear children. With the
tear trembling in her eye, she pointed, a short distance from where we
stood, to the grave of a favorite servant of her fothcr's. We looked
upon this mark of affection and remembrance with deepest interest.
It found a place in our memory and heart. Read the inscription :

STERLING:

A FAITHFUL SERVANT OF

HUGH A. HARALSON.

A TRIBUTE TO AVORTH.

He had been the nurse of his master ; and this beautiful monument,
costing some $100 or more, was thus raised to his memory. Now mas-

* 7G9 probationers ami 4 SiinilrTy-schoids.

CIRCULAK. 203

ter and servant sleep alike in death. This is one among many instances
of the kind estimation in which valued family servants are held.

Another.
IFrom the Kew- Orleans Advocate.]

I spent the second Sabbath of January in Jackson, Miss. Althoucrh
the weather was very inclement, there was a pretty good turn out to
the morning services. I presented the claims of the Book and Tract
Society, and received a response in what will help us on in the good
cause — aU things considered, a good collection.

At 3 o'clock, by invitation, I preached to the colored people — a large
and attentive congregation. This is one of the most reUgious congrega-
tions in our bounds. They have Sunday-school at 9 o'clock Sabbath
morning, class at 11, preaching at 3 P.M., and prayer-meeting at night.
Class again Tuesday night, and prayer-meeting again Thursday night.
It will do any one good who spends a Sabbath in Jackson to attend their
services.

After they were dismissed from the 3 o'clock service, I learned th.it
some of them were disappointed a little that I did not call on them to
help me in my work. Will any white congregation complain if I do not
give them a chance to contribute? But I was with them at their
prayer-meeting at night ; and Bro. E., who has been their leader for a
long time, told them they might contribute then, if they wished to do
so. Up they walked to a table and laid down their dimes, quarters, and
halves, seeming to be glad they had such a chance to do good. Do you
ask how much they gave '? More than some white congregations to
whom I have appealed in days past. I shall send them books for it all
to be used in their Sunday-school, too. Agext.

Religious Instruction op Negroes.

On this theme, Rev. Bp. Andrew commenced a series of very
pointed and able articles, in the New-Orleans Christian Advocate, of
March 1. These articles have been copied extensively, and will un-
doubtedly do much good.

The Preshyterian Herald says, in quoting :

" Bishop Andrew is now pubhshing in the Southern Methodist papers
an admirable series of letters to Southern masters, on their responsibil-
ities and duties to their servants and especially their obligation to give
them reUgious instruction. His style is easy and natural, and occa-
sionally touchingly eloquent. The letters breathe the spirit of the Gos-
pel, and can not fail to be highly useful."

Circular.

Charleston, S. C, March, 1856.
Dear Brother : Intending to prepare a History of Missions to the
Blacks, I earnestly solicit your aid. This you can render by giving me
information on an v or all of the different points suggested below ; namely :

204 OUR PEOPLE OF COLOK.

1. Origin and progress of any mission, or missions, giving dates and
incidents — number of neighborhood churches : are these advantageous
or otherwise ?

2. Difficulties and obstacles in the way of beginning and prosecuting
the work.

3. Estimation of the efficiency of the Gospel, and the genuineness of
conversions; based on modes of expression on these subjects among the
blacks themselves, and conduct consequent on profession made.

4. Anecdotes illustrative of the last item ; whether among the ne-
groes, or between them and owners, managers, or missionaries ; death-
scenes and expressions ; accounts of love-feasts, or class-meetings ;
striking conversions or experiences ; influence of example.

5. General estimate in which the work is held among owners and
managers ; and the reasons for such estimate, whether it be favorable
or otherwise.

6. Support, or proportion of support contributed by those whose
slaves are served — say, a statement each year from beginning.

Y. What reflex influence has been produced on the missionary spirit
and collections of the Church, or that part of the Church particularly
concerned — say, the conference, presbytery, or the like. Has any in-
direct good been observable among white persons or families ?

8. Names of those persons, children, or adults, and any incidents of
interest in Hfe or death connected with them, who have been most ac-
tive and useful in originating or sustaining any particular mission or
missions.

9. Best methods of imparting reUgious instruction, both to adults and
to children.

10. Notices, or biographical sketches of faithful men or women. Or
similar mention of white persons who may have been zealous and useful
in the missionary cause.

11. Statistics: number of members and probationers in one item;
number of catechumens ; population within reach of your appointments ;
and average number attending at these appointments.

Any information not here suggested, which may occur to you, is
most earnestly solicited, and wiU be gratefully received ; as also any
suggestion you might think proper. I beg you will regard this not as
a merely formal circular, but as a direct and earnest personal applica-
tion. Respectfully and fraternally,

H. A. C. Walker.

[From the S. C. Advocate^

Letter fkom Bishop Early.

A Fortnight among the Missions to the Blacks.

Brother Myers : On my way to South-Carolina I had the pleasure
of travelling with Gov. Aiken, who informed me that there was a great,
change among the planters in favor of our colored missions on the rice
plantations ; and on learning that I was en I'oute to visit the colored
missions, he very kindly invited me to visit him at his plantation on
Jehossee Island, the next week, when he would be there. From

LETTEK FROM BISHOP EAELY. 205

Charleston the P. Elder, Bro. 11. A. C. Walker, carried mc on Saturday,
22d March, to the Pon Pen Mission House, in a village in the woods.
We were kindly received by Missionary Kirkland and his most estima-
ble lady.

Sabbath we had three appointments, and to our great disappointment,
it rained all day ; and we believe it to be our duty to say, it is the
Lord's doings, and therefore right. On Monday morning my pleasant
fellow-traveller left, and Bro. Kirkland carried me to visit some of his
patrons among the planters on Pon Pon, whom I was pleased to find
very decided advocates and supporters both of the missions and of the
missionary. They gave me every assurance of their confidence in the
complete success of our cause in the hands of such men as their mis-
sionary. I was much gratified at his mode of catechising the children,
and with the respect paid him by all classes of the servants. From him
I learned that he had classes in that mission who had well-nigh gotten
through Nos. 1 and 2 of Capers' Catechism.

It aflfords me pleasure to say that I was treated by the planters both
courteously and kindly, and I shall never forget a morning scene at the
house of Col. Morris, one of the warm supporters of the mission.
When I had read the Bible lesson, and hymn for the occasion, at the
bidding of the master the tune was raised by one of the family servants,
and with the aid of others, devoutly sung in all its parts. What a
scene indeed !

I was then in sight of Jehossee Island, and but for the rainy weather,
I would have availed myself of the opportunity of visiting the island
while Governor Aiken was there — of catechising the children on the farm,
and of seeing his hospitality, and praying with the aged and infirm.

On leaving the mission house we visited and paid our respects to Mr.
Chas. Baring, one of the oldest men in the parish, and one of the first
patrons of our missions in these parts. He is a brother of the English
bankers, and it is said has the only male child in the family, and that
son is now in England for his education. Our reception was very po-
lite and kind, and after a pleasant and interesting interview, Mrs.
Baring gave us a very nice and timely snack, and Brother Kirkman
carried me over Edisto River to the house of our Brother Bowman,
where we were very kindly received by his interesting family.

The next morning Brother Bowman carried me to visit the planters
on Ashepoo and Combahee Mission, where I saw several of them, and
was invited to their houses and treated with great kindness, with as-
surances that the slaves under our care were greatly improved, and that
the planters were under great obUgations to us for instructing their
destitute slaves in the knowledge of God. In my intercourse there,
and since, I have been confirmed in the opinion that such has been the
success of our missions on those rich and extensive plantations, that
gentlemen owning from one to six hundred slaves, who formerly were
opposed to the introduction of preaching and catechetical instruction on
their plantations, are now among the ardent friends of the missions, and
some have built, and are now building churches for their own people,
and others are agreed to build churches for two or three plantations
when they are contiguous, thereby to enable the same minister to serve
many more persons and to do more good. Some that formerly con-
tributed small sums, or nothing at all, are now contributing liberally,

206 OUR PEOPLE OF COLOK.

and it is said that some gentlemen are surprised when they learn that
funds are drawn from other sections, to support the missionaries to their
plantations, and that others are provoked to see the small conti'ibutions
made by some of their neighbors, who have many instructed on their
plantations. Most of the missions ought to support themselves, and I
am assured by some who ought to know, that when the planters gener-
ally understand our mode of operation, and see the immense benefits re-
sulting from the practical working of our machinery, the missions will
mostly support themselves. I am frank to say that I regard it essential
for the missionary to become acquainted with the planters, that when it
is prudent and practicable, they should visit them and stay in their
houses ; and it is proper that any man who exercises so much influence
over the slaves, and who is so unrestrained in his visits to the sick and
infii-m, and in training their young, should be known by the proprietors.
The most discreet, accessible, and independent, as well as grave, ought
to be employed on these missions. It is a great work, and the man who,
either from a timid disposition, association, or a want of self-respect,
avoids the presence or shrinks at the approach of those wealthy and, in
many instances, accompUshed and benevolent gentlemen who have in-
vited us to take charge of their servants, can not succeed so as to leaven
the whole lump. With the lights before me, I am inclined to believe
that with the proper intercourse between the missionary and the
planters, it is only necessary for the missionary to make his wants
known to have his claims met and his wants supplied, and especially in
the wealthy missions.

Brother Bowman seems to have access to planters, overseers, and
slaves, and aU pay great respect to him. I visited with him for two
days, and heard him catechise from twenty to ninety children in a class
— and some of them twelve or fourteen years old, and either beginning or
concluding with the Lord's prayer. Many have made astonishing pro-
gress in Capers' Catechism, repeat the Apostles' Creed, sing a number of
hymns, caU the preacher "Mossa," and all shake hands with him when
he dismisses, and tells them to be good children. The nurse, whom the
missionary and all call " mau-ma," collects them together at his bidding.
She occasionally and with a good deal of authority tells them all to
" an-sar." After calling for, and visiting the aged and infirm, he leaves
for another similar scene, and sometimes not more than one mile off, on a
plantation owned by the same person. The slaves live in neat frame
cabins with brick chimneys, about fifty feet apart, in single and double
rows, and situated in the dryest and most healthy spots. The children
are well clothed, and, with a few exceptions, wash their faces and brush
up when they are to be catechised.

Sunday, 6th inst, I preached at White Hall to the proprietors' servants
at 10 o'clock A.M. — the very kind gentleman and lady with their child-
ren were present, to encourage the cause and show that they approved
the mission and wished it success. This was as it should be, and I
pray that the Lord bless them. At 12 o'clock I preached at Copenha-
gen to a large audience under a barn-shed, and near by I saw the frame
of a church, which the worthy proprietor is preparing for his people.
At 2 o'clock P.M., I preached to a large company in a barn, and baptized
a child of one of the most noted managers in the mission. At 4 o'clock
I preached to a large congregation of Mr. Blake's servants in his barn,

ANOTHER LETTER FROM BISHOP EARLY. 207

and administered the sacrament of the Lord's Supper. Brother Bow-
man gave a short exhortation and concluded the services at each place
To me it was an interesting day. I had never seen so many men and
women together, whose dialect, color, and general features were so much
like those of the children of Africa. Ethiopia seems to be stretching
out her hands to God ; and the long neglected race, now instructed in
the way of salvation, hail the missionary as the messenger of good.

The woi-k of the day being over, we were conducted by our most es-
timable brother. Dr. Henderson, to his house, where we spent a pleasant
night. The next morning we parted, and I set out for the Savannah
River Mission, through Prince William's Mission and Okatee Mission.

Yours truly, John Early.

April 10, 1856.

Another Letter from Bishop Early.
Savannah River Mission. — Etc.

Mr. Editor : Since I wrote you on the 10th inst., I have visited the
Savannah River Colored Mission. I found the missionaries in good
health, and doing well, and was conducted by Brother Crook to some of
the plantations ; heard him catechise the children, and saw, with my
own eyes, the improvement now being made in the social and moral
condition of the benighted sons of Africa in those low grounds ; and I
am more than ever surprised, that any planter who sees the improve-
ments in knowledge, in morals and in discipline, made by our mode of
visiting and instructing their servants, should hesitate to invite our mis-
sionaries to their plantations, and afford them all the facilities necessary
and proper to successfully carry on their work.

This is truly missionary ground, and I am sure that our friends
would regard it such if they could look upon the numerous settlements
in those rich swamps, that are to a great extent secluded from the rest
of the world, without religious instruction, disregarding the Sabbath,
and violating all those high moral principles, that make society valuable,
and that endear and perpetuate family ties ; and so far from with-
drawing their contribution they would enlarge them, for the religious
culture of those fields, though the owners of the slaves should totally
fail to afibrd the means of support to the missionary.

Originally, some of the planters supposed that it was necessary to
keep their slaves away from all others and, especially, from the gaze of
intruders; and a number of the planters were either members or advo-
cates of other churches and wished to have their servants instructed by
their own ministry, and could not see the necessity of emplojnng or en-
couraging the Methodist ministry, until their own ministry failed to do
the work. Others were opposed to the Methodist ministry, until the
Church was divided between North and South, because of the constant
agitation on the subject of slavery; and it is said, that while some of
the managers and overseers have been most excellent men and friends
to the missions, others have been greatly opposed to the presence of the
missionary and to the introduction of religion on the plantations ; and
that, in many instances, they have had great influence with the planters,
who generally reside on the premises but a short time, if at all. Some

'208 OUR PEOPLE OF COLOR.

of these difficulties have been removed ; the parties concerned, having
in many instances, been better advised, have felt it their duty to have
their slaves religiously instructed, and the sacraments of God's house
administered to them. They have seen the salutary influence of the
minister's presence and of his religious training, on both the peace and
the morals of their servants, and, with but few exceptions, the planters
have but to understand our mode of operation, and see the practical in-
fluence of our system, the good imparted to their servants and their
high obligations, to encourage religious instruction ; thus they will
partly increase their contributions, and make them what they were
never made before ; so as to render it no longer necessary for others to
pay the missionary where services are confined to those plantations.

In this connection I take occasion to say that the preacher who spends
the week either as a school-teacher or planter, is not the man for one of
those missions or any other pastoral charge. The sick must be visited,
the children must be instructed, the dead must be buried, and missionary
appropriations for a man wTio lives at Tiome and only preaches on Sun-
day, whether to the servants or to their masters, can not and ought not
to meet with popular favor. Very many of our tried and whole-souled
local preachers will preach well nigh every Sabbath, frequently visit the
sick and bury the dead too, and yet they neither ask nor receive appro-
priations.

On Sunday morning, 12th, at 10 o'clock, I preached and administered
the Lord's Supper in a small plantation church at Moreland, opposite
and in sight of Savannah in Georgia. At 12 o'clock I preached to about
120 slaves, some in a cabin, but most of them on chairs, benches, etc.,
at the front door, with the breeze blowing strong in my face. At 4 P.M.,
I preached in a small but genteel church, with backs to the seats.
Brother Crook exhorted and concluded the services, in every instance.
I returned to Moreland near night, when their principal leader insisted
that, though, in ordinary circumstances, I would be entitled to the
credit of a full day's work, yet, as they might never see me again, and
as I had given them breakfast in the morning, I must close the work of
the day by giving them a good supper. It was enough : I attended to
their wishes, and in return received their blessing. The same leader
thought it was too much for me to work for them without their making
some return, and supposing that I could carry them home, kindly offered
me as the best he had to give, a quantity of fresh eggs. I thanked him
and excused myself from taking them, as I lived hundreds of miles away
and could not carry them.

Monday morning, 14th inst., Mr. Smith, the manager, kindly provided
me a fine boat, with four hands, who brought me over to Savannah in
fine style, accompanied by my esteemed Brother Crook. May a gracious
providence preserve him and his family, and bless him and his interest-
ing colleague, in their work of faith and labor of love.

So sensible am I of the importance of these missions that I resolved,
Providence permitting, that I would visit those missions again, with
Cooper River, Jehossee Island, and others, next March and April.

I am greatly pleased with the missionary and other work in South-
Carolina, yet permit me to express my extreme regret that, in many
instances, our members and fi-iends who live in ceiled houses themselves,
and are there surrounded by every comfort, have assumed to be so

OUR PEOPLE OF COLOR. 209

plain, humble, and easily satisfied, as to build cheap and indifferent
houses to worship in, while other denominations, more awake to their
interests and duty, have built nice churches, and superseded us in our
own communities ; and in some instances, by this commendable policy,
other denominations have monopoUzed towns and villages, surrounded
and originally under the influence of our people. And in some in-
stances, this commendable zeal of others has enabled them to use the
means of our own friends to build chiu-ches and schools to our exclu-
sion. This should not be so ; for in some, if not in many instances, we
iire criminally delinquent, and the remedy should be applied, the error
should be corrected, and the evil removed from among us here and else-
where ; for it is not confined to these bounds. Yours truly,

Savannah, I5th April. JjfO. Early.

An Annual Gift.

One " Old Solomon" appears once a year by his ofFei-ings to the editor
of the Riclimond Christian Advocate. The editor introduces this
Ethiopian prince :

" Our old friend appears in our columns once more. He greets us
annually with a contribution. Last year he told us his donation was
the fruit of his savings in the sale of 'fish and oysters,' and was gov-
erned by the fluctuations of the trade ; as God prospers him, so he
gives of his earnings to the cause of Christ. Who does not wish that
Old Solomon's net may be always on ' the right side of the ship ?' Pro-
vidence has been more propitious we suppose, the past season, and as a
thank-offering the contribution is enlarged."

And here is the " app'earance," unvarnished:

"Bro. L. M. Lee: Inclosed is mi supcripsion this ear to the miscion-
ary. trak and bible cociety, twenty dolers to miscionary, five to trak,
five to bible cociety — makes thirty altogether, i wish i was able to cen
mor. i read your paper sometime when I can get. mi brothers lend it
me some times, i hop this will go saf to you and the Lord send whar
it is most nerded. mi best christian love to you from one of brothers in
Christ Jesus our lord. Your friend, Old Solloman.

" June 7, 1856."

Handsome Donation.

Two young ladies, the Misses Brown, of Kentucky, presented a new
carriage, valued at six hundred and fifty dollars, to the Missionary So-
ciety of the M. E. Church, South. The special object of the donation is
to aid in the mission to the colored people of the South.

210 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

CHAPTER X.

HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

Methodism in Charleston.

In the " Annals" for 1855 we gave XIX Numbers under this caption,
bringing the history down to 1812. The series, which is from the pen of
the Rev. Francis A. Mood, of the South-Carolina Conference, has been
finished, and we supply the remaining numbers. Mr. Mood has done
good service to the Church, not only in presenting so much useful in-
formation, but also in setting an example which we hope will be largely
followed in the collection of local church history.

No. XX. — The First Camp-Meetdjg.

In the previous notices of Methodism in Charleston, a narrative has
been given of the principal events occurring yearly, from its establish-
ment in 1785, until the year 1813. It is my purpose now, merely to
sketch the chief events occurring from that time until the present, with-
out special reference to the order of time. John Collingsworth was the
Presiding Elder of Edisto District, for 1814, in which district Charles-
ton was included. Alexander Talley, John B. Glenn, and Samuel Dun-
wody, were the preachers of the station. The Presiding Elder was in
some respects a remarkable man. He was powerful in prayer, and
seemed possessed almost of an almighty faith. It is of him that it is
related, on one occasion, passing through the State of Virginia, his
righteous soul was vexed, upon seeing the land wholly given to tobacco.
He preached, and after a fierce denunciation of the vices of the day, the
one of tobacco included, he got down to pray. He presented the wants
of the congregation in an earnest manner, and there besought the Lord
to convince the people of their error in spending their time and means
and toil in cultivating a noxious weed, that should have been devoted
to the production of healthy produce. He prayed the Lord to signalize
his disapproval, by destroying the crops then in a flourishing state, if
nothing else would convince them. Sure enough — who vriU say it was
not in answer to his prayer? — a terrific hail- storm passed through that
section during the afternoon, knocking up, or rather knocking down,
the prospects of the old Virginians for a bountiful crop ; for the fields
were torn up most sadly. An ungodly old planter, who was one of the
sufferers, and had heard of the preacher's demonstration, the next day,
mounting in hot haste, took after him. Riding up to him as he jogged
along over his saddle-bags, in fierce wrath he demanded : "Are you, sir,
the Methodist preacher who prayed the Lord to destroy my crop of to-
bacco?" He replied: " My name is Collingsworth ; I preached yester-

METHODISM IN CnARLESTON. 211

(lay in the neighborhood, and prayed the Lord to show his disapproval
of raising tobacco." " Well, sir, you are just the man I am after ;
I am ruined for this season, and I have come to take my revenge out of
you, sir," at the same brandishing a frightful looking wagon-whip.
Commencing to dismount, the old man coolly replied : " Well, if I must
be whipped for it, I suppose I must submit ; but take care that before
you have done, I do not pray the Lord to overtake you with something
worse than overtook your crop." That thought had never entered his
mind. Hastily putting spurs to his horse, he galloped off, glad to try
if possible to get out of the reach of the prayers of such a man.

Under his auspices the first Charleston camp-meeting was held. The
spot selected for the purpose was upon Goose Creek. Large congrega-
tions attended, and several times the services were marked by over-
whelming displays of the divine presence. The service most strikingly
signalized in this respect, was the one of Saturday night. Samuel Dun-
wody preached, from Ezekiel's vision of the Dry Bones. His sermon
on this occasion is spoken of as one of the most powerful ever delivered
by him. From a silent, rapt attention, the throng was gradually melted
to tears, and finally the speaker's voice was drowned amid the cries and
sobs and shouts of the multitude. An invitation was extended for
mourners to come to the altar, when a general rush was made in oppo-
site directions, many hastening forward to obtain the prayers of the
pious, and numbers endeavoring to make their escape from under the
arbor. ^lany of these last, overwhelmed by their sense of guilt even in
their flight, fell to the earth in every direction as if smitten by the hand
of death, and until the dawn of the Sabbath, from under the arbor, the
tents, and over the ground, the voice of weeping and intercession was
heard. This scene was renewed under the sermon of Mr. Collingsworth,
and a number were added to the Church as a result of this meeting.
The camp-meetings for the city have been continued with occasional
interruptions until within the last four years. We are glad to learn
that active measures are now on foot for the renewal of this annual
gathering. We pray success to the effort. There are those who think
such a meeting superfluous, with all the other church privileges enjoyed
in the city ; but whether it may be accounted for physiologically or re-
liously, our ministry rarely have failed in accomplishing much on occa-
sions of this kind. The preachers preach better, and the people seem
to hear to more profit. Besides, for the city, we can conceive of nothing
more calculated to promote a union of feeling, sentiment, and interest,
between the different charges, than a joint meeting of this kind. And
if affording sound doctrine, and Methodist preaching to a large multi-
tude, who never hear any preaching or other religious service, be an
argument, surely the camp-meeting should be continued. The thought-
less, unconverted multitude of Charleston, the thousands for whom no
church accommodation is provided, should, must be reached, and if the
camp-meetings be too inconvenient or expensive, let some form of street
preaching be devised. It is worthy of mention in behalf of the utility
of the camp-meetings near Charleston, that some twenty of the active
itinerants of the South- Carolina Conference, trace their conversion to
God at these annual festivals.

212 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

No. XXI. — The African Schism.

During the year 1815, under the administration of Anthony Senter,
Preacher in Charge, a careful revision was had of the state of the
colored society. They numbered at that time about four thousand.
Upon a careful investigation of the conduct and management of their
monetary affairs, much corruption was found to exist. Up to this time
the colored official members were allowed a distinct Quarterly Confer-
ence, and their collections, taken up by their leaders and preacher.^,
were held and disbursed by them. Mr. Senter, upon the discovery of
the improper workings of this system, required of them to deliver the ,
collections, according to Discipline, into the hands of the stewards.
And their church trials, also, which had been hitherto entirely among
themselves, to be conducted in the presence of the Preacher in Charge.
His proceeding awakened considerable opposition among the leaders,
particularly after abolition of the quarterly conferences, and their opposi-
tion soon awakened quite an agitation among the colored membership.
This agitation was secret in its character for a long time, and during
the two years of this hidden movement the enormous increase of two
thousand was reported. It appears, as was afterwards developed, that
a regular scheme had been devised for the formal secession of the disaf-
fected ones from the Church, und as a preparatory step two of them
had gone to Philadelphia and obtained^ ordination, with a view of as-
suming the pastorate over them. Measures were also commenced by
them to obtain possession of Bethel Church hj legal process, because,
as they had heard by tradition, the colored members at the time of its
erection had contributed liberally towards it. For two years their plans
were being matured, and they awaited a pretext for a demonstration.
An occasion was aflforded in the erection of a hearse-house upon their
burial-lot on Pitt street. This lot, it will be remembered, was the gift
of Mr. Bennett, and it was only a benevolence to them in allowing them
its use. Upon the Trustees paying no heed to their protests against
the erection of the house, great excitement ensued, and at the time fixed
upon for the deploy, at one fell swoop nearly every leader delivered up
his class papers, and four thousand three hundred and sixty -seven of
the members withdrew. None but those who are accustomed to attend
the churches in Charleston with their crowded galleries, can well appre-
ciate the effect of such an immense withdrawal. The galleries, hitherto
crowded, were almost completely deserted, and it was a vacancy that
could be felt. The absence of their responses and hearty songs were
really felt to be a loss to those so long accustomed to hear them. Com-
paratively a few, numbering thirteen hundred and twenty-three, who
had hitherto found the Methodist preachers their best friends, hung
bravely to the old side. The schismatics combined, and, after great ex-
ertion, succeeded in erecting a neat church-building at the corner of
Hudson and Boundary (now Calhoun) streets. Their organization was
called the African Church. They, however, were never permitted to
worship regularly in their own building. They dragged out a miserable
existence until the year 1822. In that year, upon the discovery by the
authorities of an intended insurrection among the blacks, the church-
building was demolished by their order, and a deserted burial-place is
all that is left to mark this singular movement. Numbers of them, like

METHODISM IN CHARLESTON. 213

all real schismatics, found the new scheme did not work as well as they
had expected, and returned again to the Methodist Church. Large
numbers connected themselves with the Scotch Presbyterian Church,
and the rest were pulled and scattered. Thus the eventful history of
Methodism in Charleston was marked by another schism.

No. XXII. — The Cession of Trinity Church.

An account has been given, in a previous number, of the Hammet
schism and the circumstances leading to the erection of Trinity Church.
Mr. Hammet continued to preach in it until the year 1813. Early in
that year his health, hitherto precarious, failed entirely, and he died, on
May the 15th, under very melancholy circumstances. He was buried
back of the pulpit of Trinity Church, and his remains now lie under
the pulpit of the new building. For a year or two, the congregation
were without a minister. In the deed by which the church property
was secured to Mr. Hammet during his life, it was provided, that at his
death it should be the property of a Mr. Brazier, during his lifetime,
and then to be at the disposal of the congregation ; Mr. Brazier acting
as pastor while he lived. His name has been previously mentioned as
being a convert of Mr. Hammet in the West-Indies. Upon the death
of their pastor, the congregation wrote to Mr. Brazier, informing him
of the provisions of the deed, and requesting him to assume the pastor-
ate among them. He came to the city, and preached a short time, but,
from all accounts, not to the great admiration of his congregation. About
this time the Rev. Mr. Frost, rector of St. Philip's (Episcopal) Church,
from a rupture among his congregation, had determined upon the erec-
tion of a church-building for the accommodation of the party favorable to
him. Discovering that Mr. Brazier was not sanguine in his attachment
to his church, he made proposals to him for the purchase of Trinity, to
which he assented, and the church-building, graveyard, and parsonage,
were all relinquished for the sum of $2000. Pews were immediately
erected, and the church dedicated by the Bishop, according to the forms
of the Episcopal Church. This proceeding, however, aroused the vio-
lent hostility of Mr. Hammet's members, and they instituted proceed-
ings in law for the recovery of their buildings and land. While the
suit was pending, the counsel for the plaintiffs expressed to them the
opinion that could they obtain peaceable possession, it would enhance
the probabilities of the suit in their favor. Shortly after, while public
service was being held by Mr. Frost, one of the Hammetites who hap-
pened to be present, observing where the keys were hung, quietly
slipped them into her gown pocket ; and after service there was no
small ado, by the newly-appointed officers of the church, over the keys
so suddenly lost. Meanwhile messengers were dispatched to the absent
Hammetites, who hurried to the rescue, barred up the windows, and
locking themselves in, held peaceable possession of the building. Seve-
ral months intervened between that occurrence and the decision of the
question by the court, yet the church was never empty of its posses-
sors : here, they slept, sewed, and ate, and it was not a little singular
to see the grave old matrons seated in the church before the windows,
plying their needles with the doors carefully barred and watched against

214 HISTORICAL SKKTCUES.

presumptuous intruders. It has been whispered that one Charlestonian
was honored with old Trinity as his birth-place ; for this we can not
vouch : his name at least has not escaped oblivion. Upon the decision
of the court against the claims of the new preachers, the congregation
who remained, made proposals for the cession of the property to the
Methodist Episcopal Church ; this was acquiesced in under the follow-
ing agreement. The paper, after enumerating the members and their
families, reads : " The above-named members of the Primitive Metho-
dist Society aforesaid, are to continue members of the aforesaid Society
during their natufal lives, and at their death they and their families
have the right of being buried near where their relatives have been
buried. Nevertheless, nothing is to be so construed as to oblige the
officiating minister to administer the Gospel ordinances to any who
should live immoral lives." The son and daughter of the late Mr. Ham-
met are included in the provision for burial, and should they ever be in
want of pecuniary aid, they are recommended to the liberality of those
having control over the funds.

No. XXra.— 1818 TO 1833.

From the time of the accession of Trinity Church in 1816, and the
schism among the blacks in 1818, the Church in Charleston for the fol-
lowing fifteen years enjoyed uninterrupted peace and prosperity.
During that time, the molestations from'rude men and mobs, which we
have hitherto had occasion so frequently to notice, entirely ceased. The
congregations were generally large, attentive, and respectful, and fre-
quently the power of God was displayed in the salvation of souls. A
just idea of the state of the Church about this time, may be gathered
from a report presented at the Fourth Quarterly Conference of 1831, by
the preacher in charge. The Third Quarterly Conference had passed
the following preamble and resolutions :

"From information adduced before the Quarterly Conference, we
have reason to believe that a number of the members of our Church
here do constantly neglect partaking of the ordinance of the Lord's Sup-
per, while others attend but seldom : therefore,

" Resolved, That each class-leader be requested to make a special re-
port to the preacher in charge, specifying who of the members of his
class constantly partake of the Sacrament, who partake but seldom,
and who do not partake at all, and that the preacher in charge be re
quested to report to the next Quarterly Conference."

The following is the report :

" According to a request from the last Quarterly Conference, that in
formation be furnished the preacher in charge, concerning the attendance
of our members on the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, the following
statement is submitted. There are in the Methodist Episcopal Churcn
in Charleston six hundred and twelve white members, divided among
twenty-six classes. Of these, after a proper investigation into the sub-
ject, it is found that about four hundred and ninety-five are regular
and constant communicants, thirty-six commune occasionally, leaving
a remainder of eighty-one who do not attend upon this ordinance. We
may mention, however, that there are seventy-six members on trial,

METUODISM IN CUAELESTON. 215

now in the church. Among these, there may be some whom we, our-
selves, should prefer to remain a little time in a probationary relation
to the chui'ch, before attending upon this sacred ordinance. Again,
there are many who, not having satisfactory conviction of their ac-
ceptance with God, feel some conscientious scruples on this subject. In
all cases of the kind which have offered themselves to the notice of the
ministers of the station, suitable efforts have been made to correct the
evil, in some instances, we trust, with success. But observation too
clearly proves that we may, in these times, appropriately adopt the re-
port of Mr. Wesley, concerning another and earlier period of Methodism,
that there are many in our Societies who neither repent nor believe to
this day.

" We have only to add our sincere prayer, that our successors may
be more wise in their administration of discipline, more successful in
their efforts to build up, enlarge, and establish the cause of Zion, the
interests of which we have endeavored, however feebly, yet sincerely
to promote." (Signed) " Nicholas Talley,

"Preacher in charge."

With the facts stated in the church books, taken in connection with
the above report, we think no Methodist Society, at any period, could
have given better evidences of a wide-spread piety, or more decisive in-
dications of genuine prosperity. In the short period included between
the years 1818 and 1833, the church in Charleston had nearly doubled
its membership, having increased from three hundred and fifty to six
hundred and fifty. In the same time, the colored membership had
been tripled, presenting in that time the enormous increase of over
two thousand. The Quarterly Conference had become a large, influ-
ential, well-informed body, numbering frequently, at its sittings, between
twenty and thirty. The classes were well attended, and a numerously-
attended young men's prayer-meeting, at which conversions were fre-
quent, were all in active operation, promoting the interests of the
Church. No difficulty was found in meeting the expenses of the preach-
ers and their fjimili'es, and the church, out of debt, was yearly adding
to its real estate ; in fact, every thing seemed to promise a glorious ca-
reer of uninterrupted success for Methodism in the city, when, suddenly,
in the midst of all that was cheering, clouds and darkness intervened,
and a lasting blow was again struck at its advancement. " Behold how
great a matter a little fire kindleth."

No. XXIV.— The Schism op 1834.

In a previous article, the large size of the colored membership has
been mentioned. At the time to which we are now about to allude,
the colored portion of the membership was rapidly recovering the in-
jury sustained by the schism of 1818, and was enjoying great pros-
perity. They numbered in 1833 over three thousand. To accommodate
such multitude with comfortable church sittings, was a matter of no
small difficulty. Cumberland, Trinitj^ and Bethel, though having each,
galleries around the entire body of the building, could not accommodate
unitedly, at the utmost, more than fifteen liundred. To afiford additional

216 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

accommodations, as well as to afford convenience to the aged and in-
firm, at the instance of Bishop Asbury, in each church a panneled
division vras erected near the doors, which was generally known as
" the Boxes." It appears that after the erection of the boxes, when
the white congregations were small, a few of the older free persons of
color were accustomed to take their seats beyond the boxes in the body
of the church, and what was conceded as a privilege, became finally to
be claimed by them as a right. Gradually others among the colored
people seeing the privilege of certain ones not interrupted, began also
to pass the barrier of the boxes, and their boundaries were finally so
much enlarged as to encroach seriously upon the comfort of the whites.
As early as the year 1829, complaints on this subject were formally pre-
sented to the Quarterly Conferences, and a correction of this evil re-
quested from that body ; for it had become not an unfrequcnt occurrence
that some of the whites were compelled to leave the church, their seats
in the lower part of the church being preoccupied by colored persons,
who refused to surrender them. Complaints were renewed to the
Quarterly Conference in 1830, and as a step toward the correction of
the evils complained of, it was determined to appoint a quarterly com-
mittee of two for each church from among the official members, whose
duty it should be to maintain order in the several congregations. The
appointment of these committees was continued until 1833, when diffi-
culties of a more serious nature arose.

In that year. Dr. Capers was stationed-in the city, and his preaching
generally attracted crowded white audiences ; and the complaints about
the sittings of the colored people became constantly greater. On one
occasion, the preacher in charge being complained to on the subject,
told those complaining that they should not trouble the preachers on
that point, as it was properly the business of the members to arrange
the sitting of the congregation. The committees last appointed to pre-
serve order were almost entirely fi'om among the young men of the
church, who felt fully empowered by these remarks to proceed in the
matter as their judgments should dictate. The result was that a few
Sabbaths afterward when Bethel Church was crowded to overflowing,
upon some of the colored people refusing to vacate their seats for th'
whites, the committee forcibly ejected them from the church, and upon
their returning the Sabbath following, their expulsion was repeated.
This proceeding produced quite a sensation in the church : some who
had been annoyed, highly applauding their course, arid others who
sympathized with those long sitting there, reprobating it as harsh and
unkind. Some reference was made to it by one of the preachers at the
love-feast following, and his remarks, conveyed to the committee pro-
bably in an exaggerated form, gave them great offense, and as far as the
beginnings of this unhappy affair are traceable, it commenced just at
this point. After mutual explanations, this wound was healed, and as
all parties felt the necessity of completing some arrangement, by which
these complaints among the whites should be properly met, at the en-
suing Quarterly Conference resolutions were passed recommending
some inconsiderable alterations about the boxes, by which all of the
slaves should be sent into the galleries, and the seats on the lower floor
secured for the free persons of color. A committee selected from among
the young men was appointed to convey these resolutions to the trus-

METHODISM IN CHARLESTON. 217

tees, which was also authorized to collect money to defray the conse-
quent expense.

A disagreement between these parties ensued. What appears to have
been a commendable spirit of energy and activity on the part of the
young men, was set down as a spirit of innovation or rebellion, and they
were treated accordingly. They were foiled in every attempt to carry
out what they seemed to have regarded the general wish of the mem-
ship. They became factious, and finally organized a party in the
church so as systematically to accomplish their intentions. This step
produced an entire estrangement of feeling between the preachers and
older members on the one side, and the young men's partj^on the
other. The young men from endeavoring to correct a local evil, with
their feelings imbittered, finally repudiated some of the important fea-
tures of the Discipline, and they were accordingly arraigned for church
trial.

At this juncture a compromise was offered by Bishop Emory, but it
seemed never to have been fully acquiesced in by both sides, and after
the suspension of hostilities for a while, before the compromise was
consummated, fresh difficulties arose, and after unparalleled excite-
ment, nine of the most prominent were expelled from the church.
Upon their expulsion about one hundred and sixty-five members with-
drew and organized under the discipline of the Methodist Protestant
Church. This must be regarded as infinitely the greatest misfortune
that has ever overtaken the Methodist Church in Charleston. At one
blow the Church was deprived of a large body of intelligent young
men, who probably combined the larger part of the energy and activity
of the membership, while at the same time from the attendant excite-
ment, a tremendous shock was given to the spirituality of the church.

No. XXV. — AsBUKY Chapel, Etc.

At a meeting of the ti'ustees of the church, held September 2d,
1834, the following resolution was passed: ^^ Eesolvei, That it is de-
sirable and expedient to have a chapel somewhere in the south-west
part of the city, west of King street, not ftirther north than Queen
street, nor farther south than Tradd street." A committee was accord-
ingly appointed to purchase a suitable lot, and to make arrangements
for the erection of a building. The lot at the corner of Broad and Lo-
gan streets, then containing a large building, known as the " Academy
of Fine Arts," was purchased, and the building arranged with galleries
and pews, was dedicated to the worship of God, and called Asbury
Chapel. Services were held in it until the middle of the year following,
when it was lent for some time to the congregation of St. Philip's
(Episcopal) Church, which by a disastrous fire had been deprived of
their church building. Public services by the Methodist preachers,
being resumed in it, they were as before attended for several years by
large, intelligent congregations, but in the mean time St. Peter's (Epis-
copal) church was erected a few squares above, on Logan street, which
so materially affected the congregations at the chapel that its sale was
determined. It was purchased in 1837 by a Mrs. Seabrook, whose spa-
cious dwelling constitutes what was formerly Asbixry Chapel.

218 HISTORICAL SKEl'CHES.

Soon after this, it was determined to erect a spacious brick church
upon Cumberland street. Accordingly, the old church, the scene of so
many interestmg occurrences, was taken down, and the corner-stone of
the new building laid with appropriate ceremonies in 1838. The build-
ing had progressed favorably, when a devastating fire swept over the
city, destroying several millions of property. The portion of the ncv/
building that was erected was ruined and Trinity Church also was con-
sumed, so that at once, the Methodists were deprived of their two prin-
cipal houses of worship. Through the kindness of the congregation
of St. Philip's (Episcopal) congregation, they were provided with a
temporary place of worship in a large building erected for their own
use, while their new church was in process of building, and which was
known as the Tabernacle ; while services were provided for the blacks
in the " Old Circus," which then occupied the corner of Queen and
Friend streets. The injury done to the new building, with their other
losses, seriously embarrassed the trustees, and they were consequently
compelled to modify the plan of Cumberland Church, so as to reduce
its cost. Measures were immediately begun for the rebuilding of Trin-
ity, and the two buildings were completed at a joint cost of $57,0tji>.
They were both dedicated during the summer of 1839 — Dr. Capers
conducting the dedicatory services of Trinity, and the following Sab-
bath the Rev. James Sewell those of Cumberland.

It is to be regretted that the trustees were induced to attempt the
immediate reerection of Trinity. After, the " Great Fire" as it is now
called, so many buildings were to be erected, that labor and materials
could only be had at exorbitant rates — and the consequence was, the
erection of the plainest bviildings at the highest cost. The wisest plan,
at present view, would have been the completion of Cumberland on its
original plan without debt, and, after a year or two spent in obtainii)g
subscriptions, to have undertaken Trinity, when material and labor
were cheaper. As it was, the erection of the new churches left them
encumbered with a heavy debt, which was not entirely liquidated until
1852. Had the trustees been left to their own preference, it is probable
they would have erected a temporary building for one of the congrega-
tions until the necessary funds could have been collected for the erection
of a new building ; but the morning after the Great Fire, the City
Council met and passed an ordinance prohibiting the erection of wooden
buildings in the city ; thus leaving no alternative to the trustees but
to put up a brick church or leave the congi-egation without a place of
worship. No one looking at the plain edifices, which were then erected,
would suppose that they were erected at such a large cost ; yet it was
unavoidable, for the reasons noticed, and the contractor for Cumberland
was so crippled by the losses sustained on the building already con\-
menced, that the trustees were compelled to give more than originally
promised, or he would have abandoned its erection.

No. XXYI.^DivisiON OP THE Charges.

Methodism in Charleston, in its enlarged form, as it was found in
1842, as has been shown, was the result of a gradual but constant
growth. The labors commenced by Bishop Asbury and his compeers

3LETHODISM IN CHARLESTON, 219

on February 27th, 1785, in the deserted Baptist meeting-house on
Church street had been steadily continued by his successors until the
Methodists, though long struggling with many difficulties, had risen to
be a numerous body in the city. In 1842, though numbering four
church buildings with a membership of five hundred and thirty-fivo
whites and thirty-five hundred colored, they were all united under one
charge. One board of stewards, one of trustees, managed the affairs
of the church in the city; and though several preachers were sent to
labor there, but one was put in charge. In the year mentioned the ne-
cessity for a different arrangement began to be felt ; for the responsi-
bility of such a charge seemed too weighty for any one man to assume.
But as the writer believes that the radical change of policy, from com-
plete union to entire separation, has been of disadvantage to the Church
in Charleston, he will endeavor candidly to present the advantages and
disadvantages of the former system, and submit the modification of the
original plan which he believes might yet be adopted, with decided ad-
vantage to all concerned. And this wUl be his apology for so abruptly
leaving the narrative and entering upon an argument.

The disadvantages of the united charge were certainly considerable
to the preachers, particularly to the preacher in charge. Here were
over five hundred whites and thirty-five hundred colored, all under his
care ; and he alone was responsible for mismanagement. " The care
of the churches" fell upon him. This of course m as felt to be a grave
responsibility ; and few of the preachers felt adequate to its fulfillment.
Then, too, a considerable disadvantage was felt in the performance of
pastoral duty. No one ward or section could be claimed by either, and
there was consequently such a wide field for cultivation, as to be al-
most disheartening, as it was impossible to see each member frequently.
A difficulty, too, was thought to exist in their church having no one
man as its pastor ; and the interest of its members not being sufficiently
awakened in either preacher, the feelings arising from the endearing re-
lations of pastor and people never could properly obtain. A disadvan-
tage to the people and one which had in some instances been a subject
of complaint, was the exclusion of some of the members from the week-
night meetings, on account of the great distance of the central church
from their residence. It was objected, too, that the public was ignorant
of whom to depend upon as the pastor, and that there was consequently
an indefiniteness, which, in contrast with other churches, was regarded
as a disadvantage. And it was supposed, that, somewhat on the prin-
ciple that " competition is the life of trade," if the churches had a dis-
tinct organization, a commendable rivalry, and therefore an activity and
zeal would obtain among each, which did not previously exist.

Allowing the objections their full force, they are perhaps, not as ab-
solutely weighty as they appear at first sight. The care of this large
body could have been, and was, to a great extent, distributed among
all the preachers sent to the city. The disadvantage to the performance
of pastoral labor proved in some instances an advantage, for if one of
the preachers proved to be a negligent pastor, the faithfulness of the
others compensated, in a measure, for the loss of his services ; so that
no part of the flock was ever without a shepherd, while at the same
time they always had a preacher. The attachment to the preachers on
our circuits does not seem to be diminished, because it includes a senior

220

IIISTOKICAL SKETCHES.

and junior preacher. Their people love them both, frequently without
giving either the preference. The distribution of the night meetings
over the city, accommodated, we rather believe, all who desired to at-
tend ; and while competition gives life to rival firms, it is apt to amount
to nothing more than jealousy, when it obtains among the same partner-
ship ; for what can compensate for associated effort 'i

So that while a change was demanded, and, perhaps, the very change
that was made ; yet now, an adoption of a modification of the former
system, the writer believes, is the very thing that is needed to develop
all the energy of the Charleston churches. And lest his scheme appear
chimerical, he will, as briefly as possible, show some of the workings
of the former system which he regards of unquestionable advantage. It
is not, as some contend, Si permanent pastorate that is needed in Charles-
ton — no ! never, never. Let us not invade the vital principle of itine-
rancy, for there exists no such necessity — but, rather, if any necessity
exists at all, it is only the free workings of its already efficient ma-
chinery.

We subjoin for the curious a plan of the appointments for one Sab-
bath, as they were published weekly in the Advocate.

Plan of appointments for preaching in the Methodist churches, Sun-
day, July 30th, 1837.

Bethel,
Trinity,
Cumberland,
St.James,

Horning,

N. Talley.
B. English.
J. N. Davis.
A. R. Danner.

Tuesday eve., Aug. 1st,
"Wednesday eve., Aug. 2d,
Friday eve., Aug. 5th,

Afternoon.

J. N. Davis.
W. Capers.

N. Talley.
J. Sewell.
Bethel,
Trinity,
Cumberland,

Night.

B. English.
J. Sewell.
W. Capers.
G. W. Moore.
J. Sewell.
J. N. Davis.
W. Capers.

No. XXVII. — Division of the Charges.

It was promised in the last article to show some of the advantageous
workings of the circuit system, a modification of which, it was suggest-
ed, might still be adopted in Charleston with success. The unity of
the charges was of unquestionable advantage to the moneyed interests
of the Church. The collections gathered from the four churches con-
stituted a common fund, which was not inconsiderable when thus
formed. Their moneyed power could therefore be concentrated on any
one undertaking. If Trinity needed repairs, instead of being compelled
to struggle under a debt from money borrowed for the purpose, their
united strength met the necessity and left them prepared for its repeti-
tion in another direction. Up to the time of the division of the charges
its real estate was being yearly increased, and at that time the church
was in the possession of three parsonages and considerable other property.
Since that time, there has been a yearly sale until one parsonage, witli
the church lots and buildings, is all that remains. The trustees found
no difficulty in meeting the installments on their new churches, up to
the time of the division of the charges ; but the year succeeding its con-
summation, their books indicate a marked difference, and for years show

METHODISM IN CHARLESTON. 221

that they were threatened with the sale of the church buildings. In the
support of the ministers the same advantage was felt. There was no
strong or weak charge, but it was a joint effort to meet the entire cost.
The circuit system was also possessed of advantages to the ministry.
Preaching at different points on the same Sabbath the labor was less
severe. The preacher could, for reasons well known to the craft, preach
three times a day with comparative ease, when he preached at Bethel in
the morning, Trinity in the afternoon, and Cumberland at night ; but it
became a very different thing when three distinct discourses were to bo
prepared for the same audience each Sabbath. Some have wondered
that the preachers have entirely dropped their week-night preaching,
etc., and yet think their labors great, while the preachers of the former
dispensations apparently did more work with less complaint. The rea-
son is obvious. Each man now has to do eacli week and each Sabbath,
what one alone did on the circuit plan. The white leader's meeting, trials,
etc., the colored leader's meetings, trials, etc., now occupy an evening
out of each week for the four preachers ; work, that was formerly at-
tended to by one — so that as the labors are quadrupled, the privileges are
necessarily curtailed. Then too a young man was yearly sent to the
city who was drilled into the routine of city labor, which obviated the
disadvantage of putting on the stations of the Conference inexperienced
men.

The circuit plan was not without its advantages to the membership.
The Quarterly Conference being made up of the four churches was a
large, influential body, and its assemblage was an occasion of interest,
while their united wisdom and energy were more equally and effectually
diffused. The monthly love-feast being a gathering of the entire mem-
bership afforded a variety of Christian experience, edifying and exciting
to the most luke-warm. The weekly prayer-meetings did not give the
prayers of the stereotyped few ; but ^vere the gathering of the f lithful
from the four churches, and greater variety and interest were afforded.
Then, too, there is something delightful to contemplate the complete
unity that existed. It may be to the writer merely the sweet sensations
of fond memory. ATI were co-workers, none rivals. Ephraim did not
envy Judah nor Judah vex Ephraim. It did not require, in the appoint-
ments, a nice adjustment of talents, lest the influence collected in one
church should eclipse that in another. Those that were of Paul or
ApoUos could be gratified, if they chose, without damaging the particu-
lar interest of any ; while those with less discriminating tastes were also
gratified.

One advantage must not be omitted as existing under the unity sys-
tem, which from the fticts to support it must be considered real, even if
all the foregoing arc fanciful. It was what we may term its colonizing
tendencies. It will be observed that previous to the division of the
charges a church had been added for every fourteen years of its exist-
ence. And if we include the Asbury Chapel extension, which it was
intended soon to have renewed in another part of the city, a church had
been added for every eleven years of its existence. But fourteen years
have already elapsed, under the new regime^ and no new colony is pro-
jected. This is not to be accounted for by our having fallen on dege-
nerate day.s, or because our ministers are less faithful, but simply from
the different position jf affairs. No one charge is strong enough to

222 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

send out a large body of emigrants, and the attachments in each church
prevent a joint attempt. The consequence is, it is not made tit all.
AYhen all were one body they scattered their united force without
diminishing the actual strength of any one point.

Now the modification of this plan to be suggested, is simply the for-
mation of two circuits instead of one, the lower being constituted of
Cumberland and Trinity, the upper of Bethel and St. James. By this
means, the disadvantages previously complained of would be avoided
and the advantages of the unity system be obtained to a great degree.
If this seems to be "a step backward" or too bold an innovation, let
there be at least a stated interchange, under the present plan, of pulpits,
love-feasts, etc., etc. Or if neither of the plans will be submitted to, let
a petition be had for a missionary to be supported by all the charges.
Let him locate his family at some proper point removed from either
charge; let him establish his Sabbath-schools, etc., by the assistance
of the several churches; for be circumstances as they may, depend
upon it, Charleston Methodism must again become aggres.sive, if she
fulfills her mission to the " Queen City."

No. XXVIIL— Thb Ministry.

In reviewing the History of Methodism in the city, one can not but be
struck with the fact that the large proportion of ministers who have la-
bored there, have been men possessed of far more than ordinary .abilities.
It can be safely asserted that no denomination in the city can show the
same proportion of gifted men as their regular pastors : none of them,
the same constancy of sound, evangelical, eloquent popular preaching.
Nor has it been the fitful, evanescent glare of an occasional preacher
here and there in ten or twenty years ; but since its first planting to the
present time, the Methodist churches in the city have enjoyed the min-
istrations of gifted, holy men, whose abilities have only been surpassed
by their untiring zeal and faithfulness. In the darkest hour of trial and
persecution to the church, a respect was extorted from its wor.st foes,
for a ministry, who^o boldly and eloquently enforced by their lives and
labors the great doctrine of holiness. The high grade of the ministr}'
is indicated in the fact, that besides its first establishment by a vener-
ated Bishop, four of the Bishops of the Church have at different times
before their election to that office been stationed in the city.

Need we dwell upon the labors of the venerable Bishop Asbury, that
prodigy of goodness and toil ? It was at his instance that the establish-
ment of a society was projected in the city, and it was a regular place of
visitation until the last year of his life. Indeed, Charleston, with
several points in Carolina, were among the last places he visited and
preached at a few months before his death. Glorious old man ! Who
can fully speak his praises ? Soundest in judgment, great in holiness,
zealous and untiring in labors, for many years he travelled up and down
the continent, preaching, praying, visiting, suffering, " then ceased at
once to work and live." Is he not properly called the Wesley of
America? Or rather should he not be styled the Apostle of the New
World ?

Enoch George was for one year a regular laborer in the city, and was

METHODISM IN CHARLESTON. 221?

for several years Presiding Elder of Edisto District, in which Charleston
was included. He labored there at so early a date, that nothing au-
thentic can be gathered about his city labors — but it is enough for us
to know that he belonged to the number of spotless worthies, who have
held the highest offices in the gift of the Church. Fifteen years of t!;e
life of our late lamented Bishop Capers were spent in the city of
Charleston, ten years as a regular pastor, four years as an editor, and
one as Missionary Secretary ; and during that time he never ceased to b j
honored and revered. Of the good accomplished by his pulpit labois,
which were always given without stint, we have nothing by which we
can form a proper estimate. Eternity alone can reveal it. Let one fact
suffice. During his regular labors in the city a sister denomination,
whose churches were frequently almost deserted from the general de-
sire to hear the eloquent Capers, was enlarged by the establishment of
two additional congregations. Of Bishop Capers' life in Charleston,
what a history might be given of powerful sermons, crowded audiences,
and remarkable conversions. How many affecting scenes might be
depicted, occurring in sick rooms and on death-beds. And had a jour-
nal been spared to us, what a soul-stirring picture should we have of
the triumph of our blessed religion, as in 1826, when stern death seemed
to have already claimed him as its victim, and life seemed to be
breathed anew into him in special answer to prayer; or in 1834, when
fierce discoi'd threatened destruction to the Church. And oh ! who that
used to see and hear him will not feel it a life-long privilege to recall
those blessed seasons afforded at the Cainhoy, and Goose Creek camp-
meetings, where listening thousands hung entranced upon his lips, and
the divine glory seemed almost visible about his person, where stern
hearts bowed befoi-e his eloquence as the oak before the hurricane, and
the proud sinner quailed beneath his eye lit up with holy fire. Well
may the Charleston churches mourn the absence of his venerable form.

Bishop Andrew also for three years was a stationed preacher in the
city, and also for a term its Presiding Elder. His labors here were un-
reservedly bestowed, and met a just reward in the number brought
into the church during his pastorate there. A goodly number of the
converts of his ministry still remain, who are able to remember him as
their pastor and spiritual guide, and who still grow warm when recount-
ing his labors and successes in the city.

In Charleston, too, our admired Bishop Pierce labored as a stationed
preacher, and that too in very troublous times, when were required
"prudence, and piety, and patience all." And the older heads who
heard his burning words of truth and eloquence, declare that his
election to the Bishopric was nothing more than they had predicted
many years ago.

But many columns would not suflBce for a proper mention of each of
the great and good men, who have in Charleston as elsewhere, been
bright and shining lights. Some of their names have already been men-
tioned, and to the names of Willis Kendrick, Dougherty, and Dun-
wody, of early days, we mention among distinguished mimes of later
days, Olin, "NVightman, Summers, and Smith, all of whom the Church
still delights to honor.

224 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

No. XXIX. — Its Ministers.

Methodism in Charleston has not only to boast of a ministry distin-
guished for learning and eloquence, but one characterized also by decj)
piety and fervent zeal. It may have been remarked in the brief notices
already given of the ministers there, that one attribute was in almost
every instance accorded them ; and that was, their faithfulness and
energy. I hate vain boasting, and will not indulge it ; and in attribut-
ing this to each, it has only been done because it was strikingly deve-
loped in their lives. What candid heart does not swell with sublime
emotions of admiration as it contemplates the energetic lives and the
triumphant deaths of the early Methodist preachers. Many theories
have lately been set afloat to account for tbe amazing success of the
Methodist preacher — some of them plausible enough ; but they may be
all laid aside in the light of their untiring energy. Here was, here is
now, the secret of their success : that with a sound creed, and working
by a system wonderfully adapted to the wants of the masses, they com-
bined with fervent piety an energy of spirit that became irresistible.
No distance was too great for them to travel to preach the Gospel. No
hovel was too mean for them to enter and minister the bread of life.
No soul was too humble or degraded for their care and teaching. No
time was inopportune, no labor too hard, no sacrifice too great, no
danger too threatening for them to enpounter. Day and night, amid
the shivering blasts of winter, and the sweeping pestilence of summer,
they were found praying, exhorting, preaching, and living for God. Il-
lustrious immortals ! oh ! that our souls might more fully catch their holy
zeal and transmit it to the latest ages of the Church. Charleston has,
for many years, been subject to the periodical visitations of that fatal
pestilence, the yellow fever, and with her sister cities she too suffered
from cholera and different contagions. Previous to the establishment
of the Methodist Church there, it had been from time immemorial, a
settled custom for the Protestant ministry, at the first appearance of
such diseases — Jonah like — to take passage for some distant port. So
accustomed had their congregations become to this pi-oceeding, that it
was not uncommon for them to pay an extra dividend to hasten theii-
retreat. But such a course was not consonant with the fervid souls of
Wesley's followers. They believed that when the hand of God was laid
in affliction upon his people, that then, if ever, they needed the care,
attention, and sympathy of their shepherds. And although from their
itinerant system, they were more exposed to danger than any other
class of minister.s, they always stood firmly to their posts. Not a few
among them were honored with a call from their Master as they stood
among the dead and dying, and like heroes, fell all covered with glory.

First among them was James King, a promising young man, only
twenty-four years of age, who in 17U7, made a glorious exit to the
heavenly world from the scenes of .sorrow and death among which he
was called to labor. In the year following, fell John N. Jones, " worn
out with pain and afflictions of body." In the impressive language of
his memoir : " He was rapt up in the vision of God at the time of his
departure." In 1804, Nicholas Watters died also of yellow fever.
Wlien on his bed of death, and weeping friends stood round him, after

METUODI«M IN CIIARLESTON. 225

many precious exhortations he said, "I am not afraid to die if it be the
will of God. I desire to depart and be with Christ ;" and soon after,
exclaiming,

" Farewell, vain world, I'm going home ;
My Jesus smiles and bids me come,"

he passed triumphantly away. Then there was Jacob Rumph, than
wliom perhaps there was never a more godly, faithful minister. On the
sacramental occasion preceding his death, while administering the com-
munion, he exclaimed : " This day the Lord hath enabled me to be per-
fectly willing to die in Charleston." The truth of his exclamation was
soon tested and proved real. With songs of praises he entered into
rest, his countenance lit up with smiles of peace and triumph. In
Charleston, too, Francis Ward took the yellow fever, which terminating
in dropsy soon after, caused his death. He was an able minister of the
New Testament, and it is recorded of him that like a scribe well in-
structed, he "brought forth out of his treasure things new and old."
Here too the amiable and humble Asbury Morgan met his fate, falling
a victim to the insatiable yellow fever, ere he had passed the noon of
life. But as in life his unaffected humility, his meekness and affability
were always present, so in death his peace forsook him not, and he left
the world leaving a radiant path behind him. Here too in 1830, the
lovely Thos. L. Winn was attacked by the same fatal malady, which
rapidly developed his constitutional tendency to consumption, which
.■^oon hurried him away. He died in Camden, whither he had been re-
moved in the hope of improvement by the change ; but death had
marked him as its victim. "As a pi'eacher, altogether he richly merited
the high estimation in which he was held ; and what he was by the
grace of God as a man and Christian, let his death-bed speak." Charles-
ton, too, witnessed the death of that man of God, the Rev. Urban
Cooper. While the shafts of death were playing thick and fast, and the
same dire disease which had smitten his predecessors was snatching
away many of the loveliest and best, he was found firm at his post.
While ministering at the bedside of a brother minister, Rev. Dr. Flynn,
of the Presbyterian Church, he imbibed the fatal contagion. But it did
not meet him unprepared, for his spirit with joyful haste flew away to
meet its God. This seems like a heavy tribute to pay to one city, and
nearly all to one disease ; but it has not been without its fruit. Their
examples still live. They fell, but gained the victory in their death.
The current has been turned, and for years, like the Methodist preach-
ers, the ministers of all denominations, amidst the peril of disease, cease
not to administer warning to the living and solace to the dying.

No. XXX. — Its Ministers.

Not the least significant fact in the history of Methodism in Charles-
ton, is the large proportion of travelling preachers it has sent forth.
The writer, however, is forbidden on this point to utter all he knows and
feels. He wi.'^hcs he could speak, but his disapproval of the too com-
mon custom of writing laudations of living men would prohibit it, even
if no feelings of delicacy intervened. Let it be noted, however, in bc-
15

226 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

half of both the living and the dead, how few locations have occurred
among them ; which, we think, may properly argue purity of intention
at the outset. Germane to this, observe how few have left the Confer-
ence of their first choice.

The writer has included in the list of preachers, several who were
not actually recommended from the Quarterly Conferences of the city ;
but, as they had lived, and were converted in the city, and made their
resolutions to preach while there, he thought they could be properly
enumerated among the sons of Charleston Methodism. He can not -as-
sert positively that there were no preachers at all who joined the Con-
ference from Charleston previous to the year 1819, but the Quarterly
Conference books do not make mention of any. They, however, were
only imperfectly kept previous to that year, and indeed, several names
are omitted even in later years, which the writer knew went out from
thence and which he has mentioned.

1819. John Schroeble joined the Conference and located in 1821.
Christian G. Hill joined the same year and located in 1823.

1820. Robert Adams, now living, a local preacher in the bounds of
the Alabama Conference, located in 183G.

1824. John Mood and Joseph GaUuchat, Sr. The first located in
1830, and now lives in the city of Charleston. The latter located in
1825, and died in the city in 1835.

1825. George TV. Moore, who is now an efficient member of the
S. C. Conference on Cooper River mission.

1827. John Honour, Sr., and John Coleman. The first died at his
post in 1830, on Ashley River mission, from bilious fever contracted in
the swamps where he labored. He was one of the first Missionaries to
the colored people in the United States. John Coleman located in
1828.

1828. Samuel "W. Capers, Matthew Bythewood and Wm. M. Wight-
man. S. W. Capers died in Camden in 1855, Matthew Bythewood
located in 1830, Wm. M. Wightman is now President of WofFord Col-
lege, S. C. Conference.

1829. David Allen, now a member of the Memphis Conference and
one of the Professors in the Female College, at Holly Springs, Ala.

1833. Whitefoord Smith, supernumerary in the Conference and
Professor in Wofford College.

1834. Charles S. Walker and Alexander W. Walker. The first,
now Agent of WofFord College, the latter, an cflficicnt preacher on Wal-
terboro' circuit.

1836. Robert J. Limehouse, located in 1848, and resides within the
bounds of the Conference.

1838. Wm. P. Mouzon. An efficient member of the Conference, and
stationed in the city.

1839. Abel M. Chreitzberg. Travels the Anderson circuit.

1840. Wm. H. Fleming, now stationed in the town of Sumter.
John A. Porter, on the Graniteville and Aiken mission, and Demiis J.
Simnaons, now on the Orangeburg circuit.

1841. Henry M. Mood, now on the Bennettsville circuit, and James
Wesley Wightman, teacher in Cokesbury School.

1842. Henry A. Bass. Located in 1854.
1844. Wm. Tertins Capers. Located in 1851

METHODISM IN CUARLESTON, 227

1845. Urban Sinclair Bird, whose health failed the year following,
and he located.

1846. Osgood A. Chreitzberg, who located in 1852, and John A,
Mood, now on Black River and Pee Dee mission.

1847. John T. Wightman, now stationed in the city. James T.
Munds, a supernumerary of the Conference, and Benjamin Jenkins, one
of our Missionaries to China.

1848. Ehas J. Meynardie, now in the Barnwell circuit.

1849. Julius J. Fleming and Edward J. Pennington. The first now
travels the Sumter circuit, the latter located in 1852.

1850. John "Wesley Miller now a supernumerary of the Conference.
Wm. W. Mood now on the Orangeburg circuit. Francis Asbury Mood
in Columbia, S. C, and Charles 0. Lamotte, who withdi'ew from the
connection in 1854.

1851. Osgood A. Darby, now stationed in Wadesboro, S. C. Conf.

1853. Edward D. Boyden. A young man of great promise, who
was sent for this year to the Conwayboro' circuit, but soon after enter-
ing upon his work was called to his reward. Joseph B. Cotti-ell an ef-
ficient member of the Alabama Conference, and now chaplain in the
United States Navy.

1854. Samuel Barksdale Jones. Now the stationed preacher in the
town of Spartanburg,

No, XXXI. — The Membership,

It would take a much larger space than could properly be allowed in
a newspaper, to give even a tithe of the many interesting anecdotes and
impressive facts, connected with the lives, labors, and death of many oi
the members of the Methodist Church in Charleston. There have never
been wanting among them men and women of great holiness, sterling
worth and brilliant virtue. Many of them joined the church at a time,
when by such a connection, they perilled their good name in the com-
munity. Many of them, for years, witnessed the scenes of trial and the
alarming excitements, which over and again, threatened the existence
of the Church ; yet they quailed not, and by their integrity and consist-
encies, lived down and silenced the calumnies of its foes, and, in their
deaths, fully vindicated the truth and power of the religion they had
professed.^ A brief biography of each of these worthies, however intci-
csting it might be, would of itself occupy many pages, and it will bo
allowed, therefore, only to make a brief mention of a few of them. To
the names of those mentioned in Art. XL, among the male members of
earlier date, may be added those of George Airs, Philip Reader, and
Eliab Kingman, who were for many years Stewards and Trustees of the
churches in the city. They came up to the disciplinary requirements
of a steward, being men of solid piety, who both knew and loved the
Methodist doctrines and discipline, and were of good natural and ac-
quired abilities to transact the temporal business of the Church. The
names of Amos Pillsbury, John Kuglcy, and Robert Rilej^, should be
mentioned out of the list of class-leaders, as men of special qualifica-
tions for the office which they held. The first was possessed of a
thorough knowledge of vocal music, and taught the singing-classes of

228 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

the church. He also compiled a book of sacred hymns and songs,
called the Zion's Songster, which was at one time extensively used
throughout the South and AVest, and at camp and protracted meetings.

There are also several, who lived within the recollection of many of
the present living members. Jacob Miller, an humble, holy man, who
for many years like Enoch, "walked with God." George Just, for
whom the \vriter would fain express his love and admiration. He was
a native German, unacquainted with the wisdom of the schools, but
fully taught of God. For years he led the class, which nimibered the
largest, of the young men of the Church, many of whom, should this
meet their eye, will quicken with the recollections of the exhortations,
prayers, and tears, which he shared with them. Though an orphan
from a foreign land, by his sterling integrity and undeviating consist-
ency he won his way to an enviable position in the community, while,
by his faithful attendance to duty, and his remarkable aptitude for en-
couraging, chiding, and guiding the young of his class, he obtained the
universal confidence of the Church.

Nor should we omit the names of John Honor, Sr., for many yeai'S a
local preacher of influence, as were also Duke Goodman, Joseph Gallu-
chat, Sr., and Urban Cooper, whose names have already been men-
tioned.

Among the females of the chureh, there are many names worthy to
be had in lasting remembrance. Mi's. Martha Kugley, the heroic wo-
man who rescued Mr. Dougherty from being drowned by a mob, the
particulars of which have been given. The wetting she received at the
pump from the heartless ruffians who were the leaders in the infamous
proceedings of that night, was the cause of her premature death. Like
Mr. Dougherty, she was of a consumptive habit, and the cold acquired
that wintry night, never left her, and she and Mr. Dougherty died about
the same time. Mrs. Catherine McFarlane, whose house was for years
the home of the preachers sent to Charleston, was long honored — for
she felt it to be such — with the regular visits of Bishop Asbur}^ while
he stopped in Charleston ; and was by special selection, the maker of
the Bishop's knee-breeches. He used to say : " No one can suit me as
Sister M." Mrs. Seavers, the wife of the steward of that name, wp.s a
godly woman, "full of mercy and good fruits." Miss Selina Smith, for
years the house-keeper of the parsonage during the dispensation of
clerical bachelorism, was truly an humble and devoted servant of God.
Mrs. Matilda Wightman, another Dorcas, "full of good works and alms-
deeds which she did," always ready for every good word and woi'k, was
a leading spirit in all of the benevolent and religious enter[)rises of the
church. Mrs. Agnes Ledbetter, died but a few years ago at a very ad-
vanced age. The closing part of her life, with which many of the read-
ers of this are familiar, was a faithful index of her whole previous course.
When weighed down with infirmities and age, unable to go to the house
of God and mingle with his people, her heart was still among them, and
still alive to the interests of the church. By her needle, with eyes
dimmed and hands palsied by age, she yearly earned a liberal contribu-
tion to the Missionary cause, while to every one who went to see her,
she told of the goodness of God.

METUODISM IN CHARLESTON. 229

No. XXXII. — The Membership.'

Time in Charleston as elsewhere has brought about surprising
changes. The old ministers who planted the church — those faithful
watchmen of Zion — have, most of them, ceased to utter their notes of
warning, and are gone to their reward. And, one after another, the
great and good and conspicuous among its early membership have
gradually faded away, and been released from earthly toil. But a few
among them now live to tell of the powerful and sometimes tragic scenes
of earlier days. Old Cumberland, old Trinity, and old Bethel have each
been removed out of their place, and so most of the members, who iden-
tified themselves with Methodism in those plain structures, have been
removed to the fomily above. A few remain — the remnant of a larger
band. Let them fee duly honored while they live. Let them not be
called " croakers" and " old fogies" and like terms — which they feel arc
hateful, and which sometimes find too ready an utterance — because they
look back in their old age with eager admiration upon former days.
\7e can not tell when we reach their station, if we be spared to old age
as they have been, how our hearts, now younger and more hopeful, may
be led to feel as if all the brightness and excellence were in our days
of joy and hope. Surely it should be as much the privilege of old age
to laud the former times, as it is that of the young to laud the present
and the future. The epithets at least, sometimes so liberally applied,
will not correct it, if it be an evil. The youngest and most earnest and
most hopeful of us in the strife of the holy warfare, in which we are
engaged, can not but feel our hearts dilate when we read or hear the
old men tell of the wonderful works of God performed for Methodism in
earUer days : when men, self-made in letters, wielded " the sword of the
Spirit," with such wondrous power and dexterity, that their congrega-
tions were smitten to the earth and as on the day of Pentecost, cried in
beseeching tones : " Men and brethren, what must we do ?" And do we
not instinctively wish that this living power could ever abide with his
ministers? And shall we sneer at the fond memories and sweet recol-
lections, and the old men's love of the olden times when they witnessed
these things? Shall they be reprobated for a jealousy, however ill-
judged or contracted, in behalf of the church which they helped to
nurse, when in infiincy and feebleness, and for which they were hated
and despised ? God forbid. Let them, if they choose, weep and lament
and yearn for and with the Church.

The oldest living white member, as indicated by the church books, is
Mrs. Sarah Venroe, who joined in 1804. She has, for over half a cen-
tuiy, been permitted to worship with the Methodists in Charleston ; and
during all that time has maintained her consistency. There are, be-
sides her, several other pious female members who joined forty and
fifty years ago, and whose lives have ever been in accordance with their
profession; as, Mrs. Susannah Seyle, who joined in 1811 ; Mrs. Cathe-
rine Mood, who joined in 180B; Mrs. Susannah Bird, who joined in
1809 ; Mrs. Charlotte AVill, who joined in 1808; Mrs. Magdalene Brown,
who joined in 1810; Mrs. Mary Chrietzberg, who joined in the same
year ; and Mrs. Margaret Just, who joined in 1807.

Among the male members but very few survive, and all their names

230 HISTOIUCAL SKETCHES.

could be mentioned without occupying mucli space. The oldest male
white member is John Mood, who joined in 1808; Abel McKee, who
joined in 1810, is the oldest official member in the church, having been
appointed steward and trustee in 1817, both of which offices he re-
tained until the year 1848. He is now class-leader at Trinity Church.
John Mood is a local elder, belonging also to Trinity, who having al-
most reached fifty years' connection with the Church, still lives and
practises the doctrines and discipline that he embraced as many years
ago ; Samuel J. Wagner is still one of the most active and influential
members of the church, and joined in 1811 ; George Chreitzberg joined
in 1810, and though seldom permitted to worship with the brethren
whom he loves, still lives a MethocUst, or rather still lives a Christian ;
John C. Miller is also one of the oldest official members of the church.
He joined in 1811, and was for years one of its stewards ; Wm. Bird,
a member at Bethel, is in the new as he was in the old house, always
at his post. He joined in 1817. Not long ago the writer dared to re-
monstrate with him, finding him on his way to church on a very cold
and wet evening. Said he: "It has always been my rule to allow
nothing to keep me from church, which does not keep me from my
daily business. I was at my business to-day, and it is my purpose to
be at church to-night." A capital rule, which can be recommended to
all. Henry Muckenfuss is one of the few who are permitted to tell of
scenes occm'ring even before the Methodists preached at all in Charles-
ton. He first jomed at Trinity, under Mr. Hammett's ministry, and
became a member of the M. E. Church, when the house was ceded to
that church. No one living, it is presumed, can recall the time, when
his venei'able form has been absent from its place in church. God
bless the old man, and spare him to us yet awhile.

No. XXXni. — The Colored Me-mbership.

Were a stranger in Charleston, visiting the Methodist churches in
the city, asked to point out what impressed him as the most remarkable
feature of those churches, as contrasted with the other congregations of
the city, it is very probable he would point to the large congregations
of colored persons, who are every Sabbath to be seen tilling the galle-
ries. And to one made familiar with the prejudices of the community
and the difficulties of the Church, probably the success of the Metho-
dists among them, would be quite astonishing. It is a matter now of
gi'eat ease, since prejudices have been out-lived, and false clamors choked
down, to stand oflF and philosophize and surmise and speculate upon
this subject. It is not my purpose to attempt either, but simply to say,
that if any one desires to ascend to first causes, and to discover the
hidden springs which brought about success, let him follow the history
of the Church in Charleston back through all its vicissitudes — let him
recall the patient endurance — the ceaseless, painful toil — the earnest,
parental, affijctionate care and attention of those holy men of God, who
have lived and labored here, as their pastors.

The names of five thousand two hundred colored persons are enrolled
in the city as members of the Methodist Church, and very many of
them may be pointed out as patterns of humble piety. While much

METHODISM IN CHAELESTON. 231

of the success of the Methodist preachers among the colored population
is traceable to the simple, earnest, and powerful manner in which they
enforced Gospel truth — as we have just indicated — much more is tracea-
ble to the efiBciency of the class system, and to the unwearied attention
paid to their spiritual interests by the white members, and particularly
by the preachers who have labored in the qity from time to time. They
have been "willing servants of servants for Christ's sake."

Much of the embarrassment thrown in the way of early Methodism
in the city, is attributable to the jealousy and suspicion of its public
men, about the success which attended the Methodist ministry among
them. With the Church, as with individuals, good deeds are soon for-
gotten, while evil ones have a life-long remembrance. Not that the
Charleston Methodists are conscious, at any period in their history, of
having done evil ; but a hue and cry was for many years maintained
against them, though they were entirely innocent of doing any thing
but good, and this undefined prejudice was always the basis of an ar-
gument against them by their foes. We fear, from all the evidence,
now in the possession of the Church in the city, that this prejudice was
stirred and kept hot against them, by jealous churches, who were either
unwilKng, ashamed, or afraid to do for the negroes, what the Methodists
persevered in doing, and cheerfully continue to do.

And now, after unwearied pains and care have secured a large, pious,
and consistent colored membership, and a persistent determination
to save their souls has resulted in unexpected good, and has secured
the influence and affection of the immense majority of the blacks — an
attachment, too, which can not be broken or diverted — how painfully
uncharitable and puerile does it appear to an honest heart, for jealous
ones to be always sneeringly asserting, that: "Methodism is success-
ful among the negroes, because it is only suited to them." Had the
Methodists of Charleston courted the favor of the wealthy, and kissed
the feet of political aspirants, and let go her hold and interest upon
the blacks, she too might have claimed the favor of those who af-
fected to despise her : but her mission was to spread holiness and to
save souls ; and thank God ! she would not be diverted from her de-
sign by the enticements of secular favor, or the opposition and con-
tempt of enemies. Be it recorded in the memory of every one who
loves the cause of truth, and who wishes to remember facts worth
remembering — that in 1822, when an insurrectionary movement was
discovered among the blacks, when good and bad among the slaves
were suspected, out of the hundreds who were placed under ban, and
the many who were tried and condemned — ^numbers of them members
of other churches — not one of them was a member of the Methodist
Church, out of the thousands then belonging to it. And j'ct no one
would be impressed by the fact, though the effort to force an impres-
sion by it on the public, was repeatedly made. The fact that numbers
of the condemned were attached to other churches, was buried with
the other fact, that seemed to the enemies of Methodism as alarming,
that not one was a member of that Church ; and the community would
allow themselves to be impressed with neither the one nor the other.

Did it seem necessary, much might be said about the management,
etc., of the colored portion of the membership. It must be seen at a
glance that with such an immen.se number, of a class with whose lives

232 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

and Christian deportment it was impossible for the ministers or white
members to become acquainted, it required a thoroughly organized and
well-maintained system of observation and discipline. Suffice it to say,
that the plan developed in the Methodist system, has been found com-
pletely adapted to the emergency, and has been vigorously maintained,
and has resulted in amazing good, as may be everywhere seen in the
city at this day.

XXXIV. — The Colored Mesibership.

It would hardly be in keeping with the plan, hitherto followed in
these articles, to pass over in utter silence the names of the many wor-
thy and excellent people, who, among the colored Methodists in the
city, have vindicated the truth and power of godliness. Much might
be written about them that would be appropriate and profitable, as well
as interesting — but the unexpected length to which these numbers have
been extended, warns against such an attempt. A mention of a few of
the names conspicuous in former days must suffice.

Among the early colored members remarkable for their intelligence
and business traits, were, Harry Bull, Quaminy Jones, Peter Simpson,
Abraham Jacobs, Ben McNeil, Smart Simpson, AUck Harleston, Amos
Baxter, Morris Brown, Richard Holloway, Castile Selby, and John Bo-
quet. Harry Bull and Morris Brown went off in the African Schism ;
the last moved to Pennsylvania, where he afterwards was known as
Bishop Brown, of the African Church in that State. Castile Selby
was eminent for his humility, holiness, and unbending integrity. Though
a black man, an humble carter, moving in the humblest position in life,
he was eminently a good, and no doubt in the sight of God, a great
man. But I will give his character as summed up by Bishop Capers in
a private letter to a friend, the use of which has been granted me.

The Bishop says : " The weight and force of his character was made
up of humility, sincerity, simplicity, integrity, and consistency, for all
of which he was remarkable, not only among his fellows of the colored
society of Charleston, but I might say among all whom I have ever
known. He was one of those honest men who need no proof of it.
No one who ever saw him would suspect him. Disguise or equivocation
lurked nowhere about him. Just what he seemed to be, that he inva-
riably was, neither less or more. Add to this a thorough piety — which
was the root and stock of his virtues — and you find elements enough
for the character of no common man ; and such was Castile Selby." As
early as 1801, his name is on the record as one of the leaders, and he
held the office untarnished for over half a century.

John Boquet, a slave, was very intelligent and deeply pious, and in
consideration of his virtue and good service was set free by his owner.
The following affecting occurrence is related of him by Bishop Capers,
in the letter referred to: "Visiting him on his death-bed, I found him
unspeakably happy in the love of God, but not as well provided, as I
thought he ought to be, with little comforts and refreshments which his
wasted body might require. I noticed it and told his wife of several
things which he might take for nourishment, and which she must pro-
cure. ' He wants them,' said I, 'and he must have them. The expense
is nothing, and he must want for nothing.' 'Want, want!' exclaimed

233 METHODISM IN CHARLESTON.

the dying man, 'glory be to God! I am done with want forever!
Want ! want ! I know no want but Heaven, and I am almost there by
the blood of Jesus.' "

Richard Holloway was also conspicuous for his intelligence and zeal.
His zeal, however, was sometimes intemperate and ill-judged, but he
died much beloved and respected.

There are two or three names among the females which must not
pass unnoticed. Mary Ann Berry will be long remembered, as the ten-
der, careful, lady -like nurse, and humble saint. Bishop Capers says of
her : " I never knew a female, in any circumstances in life, who betti'r
deserved the appellation of Deaconess, than Mary Ann Berry; one who
seemed to live only to be useful, and who, to the utmost of her ability,
and beyond her ability, served the Church and poor. And I might say,
too, that what she did was always exceedingly well done, directed by
an intelligent mind as well as sanctified spirit ; so that, humble as was
her position in common society, she was really a mother in Israel. Her
meekness, her humility, and a" peculiar gentleness and softness of
spirit, which distinguished her at all times, might have done honor to a
Christian lady of any rank." Rachel Wells, too, was remarkable for
her humility and piety, and in most respects was the counterpart of
Mary Ann, except in personal appearance. Of her the Bishop in his
letter also speaks in high tei*ms. He states that not long before her
death, he called to see her after she had received a severe contusion
which prevented her going to church, at which a protracted meeting
was then in progress. Upon sympathizing with her upon the unfortu-
nate accident which prevented her getting to church, she replied : " Ah !
Mr. Capers, since this occurred to me, which you call an unfortunate ac-
cident, God has found a much nearer way to my heart than by Trinity
Church." — Nanny Coates also was a colored woman of marked piety
and generosity. And here again let Bishop Capers speak. " Did I
mention maum Nanny Coates? Bless old maum Nanny! If I had
been a painter going to represent meekness personified, I should have
gotten her to sit for the picture. It was shortly after I had been ap-
pointed Secretary for the Missions, that being in Charleston at the house
of my brother, as we were sitting together in the parlor one evening,
maum Nanny entered. I wish I could show her to you j ust as she pre-
sented herself, in her long-eared white cap kerchief, and apron of the
olden time, with her eyes on the floor, her arms slightly folded before
her, stepping softly toward me. She held between her finger and
thumb a dollar-bill, and courtesying as she approached she extended
her hand with the money. ' Will you please, sir,' said she in subdued
accents and a happy countenance, 'take this little mite for the blessed
missionaries '?' I took it, pronounced that it was a dollar, and said :
' Maum Nanny, can you afford to give as much as this ?' ' Oh ! yes, sir,'
she replied, lifting her eyes which till then had been on the floor. ' It is
only a trifle, sir. I could afford to give a great deal more — if — I — had
— it.' " — The three last mentioned were all freed by their owners for
their faithfulness and virtue. But these names are those of a very few,
and these incidents but a meagre mention of the many souls and many
interesting facts which might be gathered about the colored member-
ship of the Charleston churches. Their names are not enrolled among
the great and mighty of the earth, but, wliat is far better, tlieir names
and deeds liavc honoralde incntii)U in (lie l^aiiib's Book of Life.

234 , HISTORICAL SKETCUES.

No. XXXV. — Benevolent Institutions.

There are several institutions of a benevolent character connected
with the church in Charleston, a mention of which seems appropriate
here. Giving the precedence to age, the first institution of the kind
deserving mention is the Methodist Charitable Society. It was estab-
lished in the year 1808, and incorporated three years afterwards, under
the following officers : H. P. Weesner, President; Amos Pillsbury, Vice-
President; WiUiam Crinkshank, Treasurer; Robert Riley, Secretary;
William McKewn, and Robert Will, Stewards. It is based upon the
mutual aid principle, and has been in active operation ever since its
first establishment. None are allowed to become regular pensioners
upon its bounty but members or their families, and they can not be-
come pensioners until they have been members for seven years, or have
paid into the treasury fees equal to seven years' cost of membership.
The Constitution allows of donations to aged and indigent members of
the Methodist Church, without reference to place, and yearly these
silent messengers of mercy relieve the sufferings of the needy — both in
and out of the city. The entrance fee is $10, and its yearly contribu-
tions $2. It has funds invested to the amount of nine thousand four
hundred dollars, and the annual average amount distributed is about
two hundred and fifty dollars. Singular to state, it numbers but twenty-
three members, and has but one regular pensioner.

The writer would commend this excellent institution to the notice of
the members and ministers of the Methodist Church, both in and out
of the city. There exists no -valid reason why Odd Fellowship and
Masonry should take the precedence of Methodist institutions, estab-
lished on the same principle, but infinitely more reliable and liberal.
The public can be assured that the money they invest here for bene-
volent purposes, will be expended neither in splendid piles of brick and
mortar, nor in splendid bacchanahan feasts ; for let it be said to the
honor of this society, that in an existence of nearly half a century, a
society supper or dinner has never been known among them.

Another excellent institution, established on the same basis, and also
confined to the members of the Methodist Church, is the Methodist
Female Friendly Association. It was founded in 1810, and incorporat-
ed in 1819. It has funds invested to the amount of sis thousand
dollars, and its annual charities average about four hundred dollars.
It numbers twenty-six members, including five regular pensioners.
Though its stated benevolence is allowed only to its members, the con-
stitution permits donations to any females of the Church in indigent
circumstances, without reference to place. Its officers consist of a
Directress, Secretary, and three Trustees, who are elected annually.
One third of all the donations, regular or occasional, are retained to
swell the capital fund, while the entire interest is expended for benevo-
lent purposes. The attention of the ladies of the church is invited to
this capital institution, so little known even in the city.

Connected with the church of the same name is the Cumberland
Benevolent Society, founded in 1845, and incorporated in 1847. Its
funds invested amount to two thousand five hundred dollars, and it
numbers sixty-five members, male and female. One thousand dollars
of its funds \v:is tlie li'jritcy of Mrs. Sarah Hewie, formerly a ineuibcr

METHOBISM IN CHARLESTON. 235

of Cumberland. Members of the Methodist church have the precedence
in its benefactions, but its object is to reUeve distress wherever found,
and it has its regular visiting committees, appointed quarterly, to hunt
out cases of sufi'ering and want.

A generous spirit must be accorded to the Charleston churches.
The rates of living in the city are enormous, even at the cheapest, and
though their white membership is neither large nor wealthy, it has been
only very occasionally that the churches have failed to meet every de-
mand necessary for the support of the ministry.

During the year 1855 the aggregate cost for the support of the
preachers and their families, Hghting the churches, and meeting other
necessary expenditures, was over eight thousand dollars. In addition
to this they paid fifteen hundred dollars into the Missionary Treasury,
two hundred and seventy-seven dollars for their Sabbath-schools, one
hundred and seventy-one dollars to the Tract cause, and four hundred
dollars to the Conference collection, making the expenditure of the
church for one year amount to more than ten thousand dollars. They
have ever been hberal to the cause of Missions, and on this point there
has generally existed between the different charges a generous rivalry.
Besides the regular organizations among the whites, for the collection
of missionary money, there is a small colored Missionary Society, which
usually sends to the Conference one hundred dollars or more. This
Society extends to the free colored females of Trinity charge. Indeed,
while upon the subject of giving, it should be remarked that after an
observation of years, the writer has never known a benevolent enter-
prise of any kind to be presented to any one of the Methodist churches
of the city that did not meet a generous response. Their contributions
are not the liberal donations of a few wealthy ones, but the heart-offer-
ings of the many, including — God bless them ! — the boys and girls of
the Church.

No. XXXVI. — Statistical Sdmmaky.

To many who have followed these articles — so long drawn out — it
will not be uninteresting to give a statistical summary, showing the
growth of the membership from the first establishment of the Methodist*
church in the city, to the present. The writer confesses a sense of
sadness in giving the details in connection with the whites. In his
heart he wishes larger figures would show themselves in connection
with them. But it is to be hoped, that much brighter days are not far
distant. It is to be hoped, at least, that divisions and schisms are at
an end.

From the year 1785 to 1795, taking the membership the first year
at naught, there was an increase of sixty-five whites, and two hundred
and eighty colored. During this decade, occurred the Hammet Schism.
It has been found impossible to ascertain the exact number who with-
drew ; it was probably about fifty whites.

From the year 1795 to 1805, there was a decrease of three white
members, and an increase of six hundi-ed and twenty-three colored —
making an annual average increase of sixty-two colored. This decade
included the period of the most violent open hostility to the Church.

From the year 1805 to 1815, there was an increase of two hundred and

236 HISTORICAL sketches.

twenty whites, making an annual average growth of twenty-two mem-
bers, the largest average reported dm'ing any one decade. The greatest
increase in any one year during this period, was in 1810, when Wm. M.
Kennedy, T. Mason, and R. Nolly, were the preachers. They reported
an increase that year, of eighty-one whites. During this year the city
was kept in consternation by the frequent recurrence of earthquakes,
and for weeks the churches were daily crowded. During this decade
there was the large increase of two thousand eight hundred and
twenty colored, averaging two hundred and eighty-nine members eacli
year.

From 1815 to 1825, there was an increase of one hundred and twenty-
seven whites, making a yearly average increase of fourteen. There
was in the same time a decrease of two thousand three hundred and
thirty-eight colored. The African schism in 1818, carried off four
thousand three hundred members, so that branch of the membership
recovered surprisingly in seven years. The greatest increase in one
year among the whites, was in 1818, when Lewis Myers, Z. Dowling,
and H. T. Fitzgerald, were the preachers, who reported an increase of
seventy-six whites.

From 1825 to 1835, there was an increase of only fifteen whites —
the schism of 1834 having directly and indirectly caused the loss of
over two hundred members. Among the colored there was an increase
of six hundred and ninety-six members.

From 1835 to 1845, there was an increase among the whites of five
hundred and ninety-seven, averaging "nineteen members each year.
The greatest increase during any one year of this decade, was in 183G,
when William Capers, James Sewell, J. W. McColl, and W. A. Game-
well, were the preachers. They reported an increase of one hundred
and forty-four members — the lai'gest increase among the whites ever
reported in one year, since the establishment of the church in the city.
Dm-ing these ten years there was an increase of four hundred and
twenty-five colored.

From 1845 to 1855, there was an increase of one hundred and ninet}'^-
two whites, making an annual average increase of nineteen members —
being the same rate of increase as the ten years previous. The greatest
mcrease in a year during this decade was in 1845, when an increase of
ninety-two were reported, Samuel Leard, Whiteford Smith, Claudius
H. Pritchard and John W. Kelly being the stationed preachers. Tlie
largest increase was at Cumberland and St. James' — the one reported
an increase of thirty-seven members, the other an increase of thirty-
nine. During these ten years there was an increase of four hundred
colored.

The churches now number an aggregate membership of eight hun-
dred and thirty-five whites, and five thousand two hundred and sixty-
seven colored, with eight Sabbath-schools in active operation, numbering
one hundred and fifty-seven oflScers and teachers, and four hundred and
nineteen whites, and fifteen hundred colored children. The above facts
are suggestive of many thoughts, both sad and pleasing : but I will leave
the reader to ponder them and make his own observations.

The congregations at Cumberland, Trinity, and Bethel, are each ac-
commodated with commodious houses of brick, in which to worship.
The last, however, i.*^ encumbered with a heavy debt, and I would be-

METHODISM IN CHARLESTON. 237

speak the attention of the liberal throughout our bounds for its assist-
ance and relief.

St. James' Chapel has had but an occasional mention in the foregoing
articles, because it was comparatively so recently identified with the
movements of Methodism in the city ; but let me solicit the forbearance
of my readers, while I endeavor to atone for any seeming past neglect.
It is situated in the Upper Wards, formerly known as Charleston Neck.
This is a part of the city which has, within a few years, been filled up,
as if by magic, and the large vacant spaces which six years ago occu-
pied many acres, are now compact squares of dwelling houses. St.
James' is one of only two Protestant houses of worship in this section,
and has for years now, been attended by large, respectful congregations.
It was originally a small chapel, and has been widened and lengthened
and heightened, as necessity demanded, until further enlargement is
impossible ; and now it is entirely too small to accommodate the con-
gregations of both white and colored, who desire to assemble there. It
was erected in 1803, and it will surprise no one when we tell them that
the winds and rains and snows of half a century have rendered it a
dilapidated concern. To be brief, a new building is imperatively de-
manded, and has been resolved on, but the congregation are without
the means. They have used the most commendable exertion through-
out the city to raise the required sum, but the heavy draught recently
made upon the liberality of the citizens, for the erection of Bethel, has
made them comparatively unsuccessful, and thev are compelled to turn
to other sources.

No. XXXVII. — List of Stationed Preachers.

1785. John Tunnel.

1786. Henry Willis, Isaac Smith.

1787. Lemuel Green.

1788. IraEUis.

1789. No preacher hamed on the minutes.

1790. Isaac Smith.

1791. James Parks.

1792. Daniel Smith.

1793. Daniel Smith, Jonathan Jackson.

1794. Joshua Cannon, Isaac Smith.

1795. Phihp Bruce.

1796. Benjamin Blanton.

1797. Benjamin Blanton, J. N- Jones, J. King.

1798. John N. Jones, Tobias Gibson.

1799. John Harper, Nicholas Snethen.

1800. George Dougherty, J. Harper.

1801. George Dougherty, J. Harper.

1802. John Garvin, Benjamin Jones.

1803. Bennet Kendrick, Thomas Darley.

1804. Bennet Kendrick, Nicholas Waters.

1805. Buddy W. Wheeler, J. H. Mellard.

1806. L. Myers, Levi Garrison.

1807. Jonathan Jackson, William Owen.

238 PIISTORICAL SKETCHES.

1808. William Phoebus, J. McVean.

1809. Samuel Mills, William M. Kennedy.

1810. W. M. Kennedy, T. Mason, R. Nolley.

1811. Samuel Dunwoody, F. AVard, William Capers, Wm. S. Talley.

1812. F. Ward, J. Rumph.

1813. N. Powers, J. Capers, S. M. Meek.

1814. S. Dunwoody, A. Talley, J. B. Glenn.

1815. A. Senter, A. Talley, S. K. Hodges.

1816. J. W. Stanley, E. Christopher, James 0. Andrew.

1817. Solomon Bryan, W. B. Barnett, W. Kennedy, W. Williams.

1818. L. Myers, A. Talley, H. Bass.

1819. L. Myers, Z. DowHng, Henry T. Fitzgerald.

1820. AViUiam M. Kennedy, Henry Bass, J. Murrow.

1821. AA^illiam M. Kennedy, D. Hall, W. Kennedy, Asbury Morgan.

1822. James Norton, D. Hall, J. Evans, R. Flournoy.

1823. John Howard, AYm. Hawkins, Thos. L. AVinn, Elijah Sinclair.

1824. S. Dunwoody, J. Howard, J. Galluchat, Sr., S. Olin.

1825. Wm. Capers, A. P. Manlcy, sup., Benj. L. Hoskins, S. Olin.
182G. AVm. Capers, H. Bass, P. N. Maddux.

182T. J. O. Andrew, H. Bass, N. Laney.

1828. J. 0. Andrew, A. Morgan, Benj. L. Hoskins.

1829. N. Talley, J. Freeman, William H. Ellison.

1830. N. TaUey, Thos. L. Winn, AA' m. M. Wightman.

1831. C. Betts, Bond Enghsh, W. Murrah.

1832. Wm. Capers, Wm. Cook, Thos. E. Ledbetter, Wm. Murrah.
1838. AVm. Capers, J. Holmes, H. A. C. AValker, Reddick Pierce to

change after three months with J. K. Morse.

1834. Wm. M. Kennedy, Wm. Martin, G. F. Pierce.

1835. W. M. Kennedy, Wm. Martin, J. J. Allison, W. A. Gamewell.

1836. Wm. Capers, J. Sewell, J. W. McColl, AV. A. Gamewell.

1837. B. English, J. Sewell, J. N. Davis, James AV. AVelborn.

1838. B. English, J. E. Evans, Samuel Armstrong.

1839. N. Talley, J. E. Evans, W. Capers, P. A. M. Williams.

1840. N. TaUey, H. A. C. AA^alker, AVhitefoord Smith.

1841. B. English, J. Sewell, J. Stacy, T. Hutchiugs, city missionary.

1842. B. EngUsh, H. Spain, A. M. Shipp.

1843. Cumberland, W. C. Kirkland ; Trinity, Jas. Stacy ; Bethel, B.

Bass; St. James', J. Nipper.

1844. Cumberland, S. AV. Capers ; Trinity, J. Stacy ; Bethel, AVm. C.

Kirkland ; St. James', J. A Porter.

1845. Cumberland, S. AV. Capers ; Trinity, T. Huggins ; Bethel, C.

H. Pritchard ; St. James,' D. Derrick.

1846. Cumberland, S. Deard; Trinity, AV. Smith; Bethel, C. H.

Pritchard; St. James', J. AA^ Kelly.

1847. Cumberland, A. M. Forster; Trinity, Whitefoord Smith;

Bethel, W. P. Mouzon ; St. James', M. Eaddy.

1848. Cumberland, AV. Smith ; Trinity, supplied by Alex. Speer,

local preacher of Ga. ; Bethel, W. P. Mouzon ; St. James',
AVm. T. Capers.

1849. Cumberland, AV. Smith ; Trinity, C. H. Pritchard ; Bethel, J.

A. Porter ; St. James', A. G. Stacy.

1850. Cumberland, Wm. G. Connor ; Trinity, Jas. Stacy ; Bethel,

Henry M. Mood ; St. James', A. G. Stacy.

METHODISM IN WASHINGTON, N. C. 239

1851. Cumberland, ^Y. A. Gamewell; Trinity, W. A. McSwain;

Bethel, C. H. Pritchard ; St. James', J. R. Pickett.

1852. Cumberland, W. Smith; Trinity, W. A. McSwain; Bethel, C.

H. Pritchard ; St. James', John R. Pickett.

1853. Cumberland, AY. Smith, sup., John T. Wightraan ; Trinity, C.

H. Pritchard; Bethel Joseph Ci'oss; St. James', Allen Mc-
Corquodale.

1854. Cumberland, J. T. Wightman, TV. Smith, sup. ; Trinity, H. C.

Parsons ; Bethel, J. Cross ; St. James', A. McCorquodale.

1855. Cumberland, S. Leard ; Trinity, J. Cross; Bethel, J. T. Wight-

man ; St. James', Wm. E. Boone.

1856. Cumberland, Wm. P. Mouzon ; Trinity, Joseph Cross ; Bethel,

J. T. Wightman ; St. James', AVilliam E. Boone.

[From the N. C. Christian Advocate.']

Information from an Old Record;, or, Methodism in

"Washington, N. C. '

[The following sketches have been attributed to the graceful pen of
Rev. John S. Long.]

No. I.

Under this head we propose the publication of some particulars con-
nected with the early history of the Church in this section. Our facts
will be taken from an antiquated record, the work of a zealous Christian
minister who was appointed to this field of labor thirty years agone. It
is a veritable history of the infancy and growth of Methodism among
us, inasmuch as it is authenticated, to a great extent, by living testi-
mony. There are many preachers still living, now becoming aged and
worn with service, who will remember that in this place they beheld
the first fruits of their young zeal for the Master, and will turn with a
pleasant emotion to the sunny memories of the olden time. From the
sepulchres which are with us will go forth some of the brightest seals
to their ministry, and hither they nmst look for the completion of their
crowns of jewels. That we should catch a fragrance from this old
manuscript, is not to be wondered at. We ask for our fathers — what
character they bore, or wha't attitude they assumed in the great aspect
of the then naw religion — what position they occupied in the Church,
and with what prospect they died. Their ashes are in our grave3\ards,
we know, but of what else concerning them are we informed ? Well,
this old record will answer a great many questions. To one it says:
" Both of your ancestors, three generations back, were energetic, deeply
pious Methodists, liberal in charitable outlays of their worldly substjince,
substantial pillars of the temple, triumphant in death." To another:
" Your grandfather was very poor in matters of silver in gold, of feeble
body, and quiet, unpretending manners, but, my dear sir, a very giant
in spiritual life, an impersonation of glory and victory in the final con-
flict." We that remain wish to discover under what prestige a Metho-
dist society took its rise here. Was it, in the beginning, pitiful and des-

240 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

piscd, or strong in promise and respected ? — was good accomplished in
its extension, or evil ? In a word, we would have light in upon the
whole track of Methodism among us, up to this present land-mark. So
far as the manuscript will justify, we shall perfect our little " labor of
love" in this respect.

It is probably known to but few that Bishop Asbury formed the first
Methodist society in this place, in his own appropriate person. This
was in 1784, over seventy years ago. So far from being the work of
necessity, or bare policy, it was suggested and accomplished by the most
enlightened sense of religious duty, as well as a sincere, devotional en-
thusiasm. Previous to the war of the Revolution, Dempsey and Sarah
Hinton, resident on Deep River, under the preaching of one of the earli-
est ministers commissioned to this State, became deeply impressed with
the high scriptural character of our system of faith. The latter, the
manuscript goes on to say, was genuinely converted, and husband and
wife associated themselves with the Methodists. Having, up to this
time, been strict disciples of another and more accommodating creed,
more alive to the shadow than the substance of godliness, it is not to be
supposed that inactivity or indiiference on the subject of religion should
be consequent upon their change. They speedily showed the most
burning manifestations of sympathy in behalf of the Church, conse-
crating their affections, come clouds or sunshine, to the steady advance-
ment of her interests and the enlargement of her coast. About the period
just specified, the quiet of the country- was broken up by repeated de-
predations of the Tories. Deep River and its vicinity were not exempt
either from the general alarm or the frequent trespasses of these royal
robbers, and Dempsey and Sarah Hinton believed it unsafe to trust
longer to the possibility of continuing unmolested beneath their own roof.
The small town of Washington, by reason of its retired position, of-
fered the strongest inducements to the fugitives, and here they settled.
Not only so, but they brought with them their household gods. They
found a community destitute of any organized religious association. It
will be remembered that those were times of slender enterprise and
feeble invention. Whatever advantages of intercommunication witlv
more distant regions were possessed by this people, it is not material
to know ; it is very evident that the religion of the Methodists was re-
garded as an unmeaning fiible. Hence, upon an unpolished, irreligious
social state, the thrilling story of the Cross, delivered after Methodistic
fashion, was so much useful labor thrown a»way, and the Hinton family
found the field of their usefulness necessarily contracted. But the
great God bringeth strength out of weakness. It mattered little about
the soil, so the seed sown were good and carefully attended.

We have no means of arriving at the size or population of our town
at that distant day. All living witnesses are passed away, and the re-
cord is silent. There are no buildings old and venerable enough to re-
mind us of it ; the voice of tradition, even, is unuttcred. It is safe to
suppose, however, that trade, with its train of multiplied improvements,
was asleep through all our limits, while the mind of speculation was
but just beginning to estimate future probabilities. If we were to in-
dulge a little antiquarian curiosity, we think the evidences of the
" smallest beginnings" might be revealed respecting Washington at that
period. Our beautiful river, nevertheless, flowed onward to the Sound

METHODISM IN WASHINGTON, N. C. 241

then as now, and visions of vessels floating upon its bosom, and havens
springing up by its margin, vras the staple of all speculation. Have
these visions been realized?

' >.'mpsey and Sarah Hinton, upon their arrival here, had no sooner
co.U;)lcted their temporal arrangements, than they set about the erection
of an altar of worship. Not deterred by the novelty of the enterprise
or paucity of material for their labor, they first put their own house in
order, and then gave the banners of Methodism to the breeze. Blessed
be God, determined, energetic, pious standard-bearers have never been
wanting from that day till now. The number composing the Society
at the time and pinor to the visit of Bishop Asbury, was small.
Perhaps very few besides the Hinton family and its connections could
be reckoned with it. No preacher had as yet spread the Gospel feast in
the wilderness, and the wonder is that so many accepted the offer of
salvation. Those who did, however, became so earnestly engaged as to
give vmdeniable proof of a quickened, growing interest in the work
ahead. Destitute of the appliances of wealth, no splendid pictures of
an elevated social stand occupied their attention. The patronage of the
rich and influential remained unsought after, inasmuch as the most
valuable results of their toil must be looked for among #ie honest poor.
Accordingly, a private dwelling was dedicated to the purposes of public
worship, and under these circumstances of poverty the songs of Zion
were first heard by our fathers. We can well imagine the astonishment
which greeted the institution of Methodism in our town. It must have
grown into a panic, to say the very least of it. If its origin gave rise to
so much wondering, at a day when religion in some shape was recog-
nized and adopted by every class of intelligent human beings, what must
have been the impressions of its character among a people profoundly
ignorant of every religious association ? Under the superintendence and
direction of the righteous Asbury, classes were regularly formed, wher-
ever a sound policy dictated it. The neighborhoods of New-Hope,
Little and Durham's Creek, became points of especial interest. The
flame spread among. the dry stubble everywhere apparent, and numbers
enlisted in the glorious crusade. It may gladden the spirit of some one
to know that in these places the flame is still kept brightly burning.
Whole families glory in the badge of Methodism, while they evidence by
their untiring devotion to the social elevation, to the spiritual advance-
ment of her membership, that they heartily prize the legacy of their
ancestors.

By reference to Dr. Bang's History of the M. E. Chiirch, the name of
James Hinton will be found upon the itinerant list. He is therein
stated to have been invested with the functions of a preacher in the year
1783, and to have located two years later. He was son of the couple
already so favorably mentioned, and, doubtless, the same grand, re-
forming influence which affected such a radical change in their religious
faith, and commenced such a work of thorough regeneration among the
people of Washington, was also exclusively productive of this young
man's dedication to the ministry. We somewhat doubt the accuracy of
History with respect to the length of his itinerant life. Notwithstand-
ing the manuscript throws no light, particularly, on this point, it
authorizes us to witness to a larger amount of usefulness than two years
will serve to accomplish. Tt is stated that he early wore himself out,

242 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

in the vineyard of his Master, by his multiplied labors and severe ab-
stinence. We introduce this short memoir by way of showing the
high importance and genuine character of that religious era which had
now dawned upon this section.

No other Christian denomination has as yet pitched their tents here.
We enjoyed soberly and thankfully the privilege of worshipping after
oiu* own peculiar fashion, without the temptation of lifting the eye to
the higher and cushioned seats of the synagogue. The field was free,
and the promise of a most plentiful harvest unquestionable. For the
space of thirty years or more the Society established here gloried in a
monopoly, which will appear strange enough, when we consider how
rapidly the mercantile and mechanical resources of the place must have
grown out, as well as the readiness with which the human mind fixes
upon the '■ profit or loss" of example. It is not until after nearly the
lifetime of one generation that we hear our Record discoursing in this
wise : " Within the last four or five years (1820) the Episcopalians have
built a church in Washington, and occasionally had preaching there.
The Presbyterians, also, within the last two years, have been making
considerable exertions to form a church : they have succeeded, and
now have the walls of a spacious brick church erected, which they ex-
pect to get completed this year. The Eoman Catholics, also, have a
church building, though they are progressing slowly with it." AVe are
then entertained, in a measure, with the author's fears of the unprofit-
ableness of so many houses of worship, in a small town. Whatever
might have been the immediate consequence of this building mania, we
can see no reasonable objection to it possible to be raised at this time.
It affords us pleasure to state that the aforesaid Presbyterian brick
church is completed, that it, together with the other churches named,
have their regular Sabbath tenants, and that harmony and peace live
and blossom within our borders. The conclusion forces itself upon us
that, the Society entering fairly upon its career under such circum-
stances must have prospered. Such was substantially the case.
Though the sphere of usefulness, to Dempsey and Sarah Hinton, was
necessarily contracted at first, yet it became speedily enlarged.

No. IT.

We can not pass on without alluding in a more particular and compli-
mentary manner to the invaluable services of Sarah Hinton. This
woman seems to have been the chief corner-stone of the Society through
every stage of its early progress. Around her individual exertions —
and they were neither few nor easy — clustered its most flattering
hopes, its most prosperous experience. We are not at a loss to
understand the measure of success which attended her, when we
examine the unequivocal position she assumed and occupied, and
the unflinching courage and flaming zeal which marked the faithful dis-
charge of the weighty obligations it imposed upon her. The light
shining out from every act of her Christian life, from every aspect of
her godly deportment, was the light that shineth from the hill-top, un-
qucnched to the last. She did not dribble away her purse (whatever
might have been its size) in the bestowment of unappreciable charities :
hers was the liberality of the Bible, which has in it nothing of sound-

METHODISM 1\ WASHINGTON, N. O. 243

ing brass or tinkling cymbal. In her view, the impenitent heart, to be
made to subserve the glorious purposes of a genuine Methodism, must
be split by a full blow from the Divine arm ; else its gushing waters
remain forever shut up — a rock with its refreshing treasure, in the
midst of a lonely wilderness, undiscovered and undisturbed : so she
became, without fear or favor, a free-will ofTering, an acceptable agent
in behalf of the faith she cherished. It was an opinion, with her de-
monstrated in practice, that a world which contained such abundance
of sin, indulged in by every class of both sexes, should likewise be
ploughed up by vigorous Gospel laborers from both sexes, and that it
was neither reason nor holiness restraining the energy, discouraging the
spirit intent upon becoming an earnest workman. She believed that
without taking upon herself the more masculine responsibilities of the
Church, she could, nevertheless, perform a useful part and a successful
one in its accumulating history. Accordingly, she not only sang and
prayed in public, but exhorted also in the presence of all conditions of
men. The rich and poor, the proud and humble, alike sat at the board
where Sarah Hinton spread her feast of spiritual luxuries.

We are most forcibly reminded, in lingering with the memory of this
woman, of the impressive example of other females in the same sphere
of religious action — women whose crowns of honor and palms of victory
have been won in the stubborn by-paths, who have not feared to pro-
claim the whole counsel of God. We are assured that such characters
lived *in Mr. Wesley's day, and received the highest encouragement.
Indeed, the singularity of their call, the strangeness of the profession
they had taken up, were more than counterbalanced, in most cases, by
the success of their ministrations. We have no evidence of Sarah Hin-
ton becoming a preacher, though she unquestionably had some of the
best gifts of one. She contented herself with being a little lower than
a preacher, so that she might but win souls to Christ. The societies
which had been formed by Mr. Asbury were visited by her at stated
times, and especially the one in this place was kept constantly alive by
her influence.

In the year 1787 were married the first Methodist couple in this sec-
tion, and four years thereafter occurred the first death. Let us pause
here a moment. The first marriage, the first death ! — what is there
wonderful about such a scrap of information ? It is not unusual for
people to marry, certainly, nor for people to die. We grow up into the
fresh, buoyant, blooming summer-time, and, like the beautiful birds,
we must be mated. We pass on to the cloudy, cheerless winter, the
time of gray hairs and solemn memories, and we must die. It is a
privilege and a necessity to which we are accustomed, and to which, we
suspect, our ancestors were also. But some how we experience an un-
definable satisfaction in knowing what they did, which our own check-
ered life can not furnish. We invest with an imaginary interest
every way-side in their pilgrimage as glorious and enchanting as a
dream. We love to create some such picture as this — a calm, sunshiny
day, away back in the shadowy past, a snug village church with its
plain pews and unpainted pulpit, a small but respectful congregation of
people, all clothed with the simple, modest habits of the olden time ;
the minister with his placid, dignified countenance, piously expressive
of the ceremony in which he is about to engage, and the youthful con-

244 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

pie taking upon their young bosoms the sacred tie which death alone
can sever. And then, by way of contrast, the similitude of a funeral
pageant : the mournful, measured toll of the bell, the procession of sad
faces, sobbing kinsmen, the grave. Some such scenes, we daresay,
were enacted in the early history of our Methodist forefathers. And
now, at this late period, we dwell with absorbing interest upon a mar-
riage and a death, the first in which they were called to participate.
We seem to have the same class of thoughts, the same flight of emotions.
We appear to enter into their hopeful plans, to share the burden of their
fears. The life of sunbeams and of shadows which they lived, we live
also, and we seem to look at the beautiful bow which Heaven gave as a
token of good over their spiritual journey, as stiU gleaming in the mid-
sky. Persons may say what they please about the folly of rubbing up
old remembrances : there is more of wisdom in returning to them than
folly. At least, give me the warm, healthy admiration of what is an-
cient and valuable, in preference to a stoical rejection of what is old and
unfashionable.

We now come to briefly consider the most important and interesting
event of which the chronicle informs us — the first revival of religion in
Washington. This took place in 1791. We are not made to under-
stand its full extent, though enough is left to justify the opinion that it
was what may be aptly termed a great revival. A few names are
given of individuals who, as its fruits, connected themselves with the
Church. They are names of the oldest^settlers of this region, proprie-
tors of the soil, whether by patent or purchase, for many preceding
generations. Having the command of whatever could confer, in a so-
cial sense, position or influence, it is reasonable to suppose that the so-
ciety reaped considerable temporal benefits from their conversion. At
any rate, their connection with it must have given a moral power and
impulse sufficient to shake fi'om its throne any premeditated opposition
founded upon bigotry or prejudice.

But it is chiefly in a spiritual sense that we are to examine the cha-
racter of this revival, that we are to determine the aggregate good of
its results. It is unnecessary to state that all revivals, except in most
extraordinary instances, start forward under the nourishing and com-
pelling influences of a thorough godly experience and a settled Christian
principle. Neither is it doubtful that, by the steady efforts put forth
by the eager membership here, the Society was eminently prepared for
an especial baptism of the Spirit. Assembled together as one man, and
anxiously awaiting Divine assistance to their feeble strength, the Pen-
tecostal shower was inevitable. Accordingly, the flood-gates were
lifted, and the shower grew into a torrent. Standing here, at this day,
we see how incomparable to a high religious character is the might of
riches or worldly distinction for the works of the Bible. Even a house
of worship is unsafe upon its foundation, while it leans merely upon a
credit which the world can give. But where love and joy in the Holy
Ghost is abundant, the mountains are not more firmly planted than the
success of that church established which rests upon such a hope. The
society gathered within its arms a number who commenced the race fair-
ly, ran it successfully, and won the goal with a shout of triumph. Not
only did they shine forth a brilliant Christian example in their own in-
dividual cases, but they laid up for the future of the Church a store of

METHODISM IN WASHINGTON, N. O. 245

wealth in the proper religious education of their families. They foresaw
that most fortunate desideratum in the later policy of Methodism, care^
ful discipline of youth in the implanting of a high regard for the faith
of their fathers, and a love for the altars where they worship, and learned
their children to reverence God and adhere to Methodistic doctrine.
Satisfied, themselves, of its saving power, they feared not to trust their
offspring. Among those who gave themselves to God and the Church
during this revival, we find prominently mentioned the name of Thomas
Smaw. Verily, this good man must have been a soldier of the noblest
stamp. Our manuscript declares that he was the "admiration of all
thinking men, for the uniformity and brilliancy of his Christian course."
A more splendid tribute could not be paid, nor a more accurate <i ■-
scription be given of a whole-souled genuine Methodist. Thoin is
Smaw's children live to venerate his memory, to prize more than the
empty "pomp and circumstance" of worldly show the distinguished
Christian name which he left behind him, and more than all, to follow
in his footsteps : they are Methodists. Truly there is a sweet-smelling
savor which followeth after righteousness.

There was no lack of spirit in the manner in which the young con-
verts volunteered themselves for the service. Believing that the society
could abundantly aid, in seasons of trial, the giving of steadiness to
their faith, the preservation of their " first raptures," they meekly and
enthusiastically submitted to the yoke. The consequence was, that the
first revival not only added to the size of Christ's spiritual kingdom,
but numerically strengthened the Church. Her wings may, thereby,
have been said to be fairly and proudly adjusted for the heavenly jour-
ney. Glory be to God for the revival of 1791.

No. III.

Unfortunately, the young society having been blessed with such a
prosperous work was destined to a speedy and unexpected declension.
In the most elevated places, the most important and arbitrary trusts,
and under circumstances well calculated to stagger the most incredulous,
the evidence of rottenness and instability was discovered. Prayerful
men and women awoke from their pleasant di'eams. to find all, or nearly
all their faithful labor "the baseless fabric of a vision." Instead of a
mere lukewarmness creeping in among the body of the membership,
downright apostasy is found to have mastered some of the leading
characters of the Church. A class-leader and exhorter, the names of
whom it is not important to the purpose of this history to give, back-
slid and were cast off. It is not stated that they were involuntarily
overcome by the power of temptation, ensnared and spoiled without the
chance of making a shift for their safety, but that of their own un-
faithfulness they became aliens and castaways. AVhat an emphatic
lesson to those who have the keeping of " the household of faith." The
record itself, in committing their cases to the charity of mankind, leaves
them with sentiments of sorrow, but, at the same time, of indignation
and surprise. Heaven steady the soul that stumbleth.

Probably no more .satisfactory account could be given of the causes
which superinduced this leanness, than may be found in that custom,

246 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

but too freqiiently encouraged among Methodists — the promotion, to
fill posts of difficulty and distinction, of men slightly commendable for
piety and humility. Let the interests of religion be intrusted to stout
hearts and faithful, let the confidence of the people of God be reposed
in that quarter where liveth the spirit of deep, abiding grace, and the
oillars of the Church will never crumble.

At this critical juncture, nothing but nerves of steel, enlarged and
liberal understandings, and the interposition of Providence, could ward
oif the impending evil of utter desolation. Providence did interpose, •
and raised up in defense of Zion's palaces two men in whose undoubted
qualifications every throb of anxiety or fear might be put to rest.
Ralph Potts, or ae he is more familiarly called in the record, Father
Potts, and Thomas Robason, both came to "Washington about the period
of this declension — most probably the year following the first revival,
or in 1792. They were both Englishmen — Potts being a merchant of
high standing and incorruptible business habits, was induced to come
hither after pushing his fortune, for a certain length of time, in Ports-
mouth, Va., while Robason, a sail-maker by trade, arrived direct from
England. To become acquainted was, with these two men of God, the
initiatory step to a bosom friendship. Having found between them a
common platform of opinion and practice, they straightway mutually
bound themselves for the success of Methodistic religion, and not
having failed to see the imminent danger thi'eatening the little flock
with which they had resolved to unite themselves, they gladly placed
their own shoulders beneath the falling ruins, and the wreck was staid.
Very little is said of Thomas Robason, outside of his connection with
this mishap to the society, and then we are confined to the mere infer-
ence that he was made a fresh but strong spoke in the wheel of which
such sad havoc was happening. He was a member of the Wesleyan con-
nection in England, and upon his arrival here" and connecting himself
with the society, soon won the enviable distinction of being possessed
of " deep piety and considered in every wp.y a Methodist." But what
shall we say of Ralph Potts, the man of all others who merits the af-
fectionate remembrance of the pious and good — the man who was a
pattern in his day and generation, that could not be improved upon —
the man whose untiring exertions and ceaseless charities for religion
made him the glory of the society of his adoption. The children of
the Methodist Sabbath-scliool in Washington should be taught that
their grandfathers and~grandmothers worshipped God side by side with
this man, Ralph Potts. The middle-aged and the aged should seek af-
ter the mantle which he dropped by the Jordan of his ascension, and
pause not until they have a double portion of his spirit. Upon his
joining the society, the troubled waters seemed to go to rest, as if oil
had been cast upon them, such was the speaking power which dwelt in
the Christian excellence of his inner life. We do not pretend to oiTi;r
apologies for anj^ peculiarities or defects which the wise and learn I'd
of Ralph Potts' day may have di.scovered in him, but we do say th-it
the Methodist Church in Washington owes the very sap of its existence,
at this day, to his faith, to his liberality, to his (call it sectarian, if you
please) unparalleled devotion to its interests.

METHODISM IN WASHINGTON, N. C. 247

In 1798 was erected the meeting-house at which the first demonstra-
tion of public worship was made. Ralph Potts, unaided, purchased a
spot of ground for thi^i purpose, and untied his purse-strings for the
full liquidation of the debt accumulated by this purchase as well as the
erection of the building. Having seen the completion of his generous
plan, he conveyed the whole, by deed of gift, to the legal authority of
the Methodist Episcopal Church. We do not remember to have seen
this monument of incipient religious enterprise, though many on the
sunny side of life have. It has been taken down within the last quar-
ter of a century. It was not, we suppose, the product of great archi-
tectural taste, as we have frequently heard it spoken of in derision by
those who had more of fancy than goodness in their composition. It
was quite small, but large enough for our fathers to praise God in. In
style it was entirely unlike any public or private building of this day,
and in its construction economy was evidently consulted, as well as an
adaptation to a kind of mechanical taste long since passed away. In-
deed, it could not be expected that an enterprise dependent upon the
financial sufficiency of one man alone, at a period when, for this remote
section, a comfortable log-cabin made a respectable home and public
buildings were regarded as a matter of but small moment, should be
pei-fected with an eye either to style or richness of appearance. We
suspect, moreover, that Ralph Potts beheld rather too much poverty or
straitened living among the members of the society to justify an appli-
cation to them for assistance. A fair share of worldly prosperity had
been enjoyed by some at an earlier day, but whether this still remained
is doubtful, or whether the membership of these persons continued is
unknown. The record dealeth but little in particulars.

The portion of ground upon which the old church stood is still to be
seen, in nearly the very heart of the town. For its extent, I do not
believe there is a spot of earth that awakens sadder or more solemn
memories. It is emphatically a place of graves. So many are the dead
that sleep here, that the very question of title to the property has been
swallowed up in the multiplicity of head-stones. Scarcely any one that
you meet but can claim a soiTowful interest in it. Gray hairs and flaxen
curls, vigorous and weakened limbs, strong hearts and timid hearts,
black eyes and blue — in a word, the whole poetry of life has come hither
and vanished. A young man in his prime, of polished mind and noble
heart, a true and trusty friend, has a grave here also ; he died early, but
I had known him long. Truly, a few feet of ground may become sacred,
for the old Methodist church-yard has been hallowed and set apart.

Such valuable additions having been made to the membership of the
society, and such a comfortable place for worship having been secured,
we are naturally led to infer that it enjoyed, at this time, a most flatter-
ing degree of prosperity. Most probably the good God, in his wisdom,
had seen fit to lop off the decayed branches from the parent tree, that
his spirit might have free course, as the very juice that nourished its
life, through the parts sound and unaffected ; probably that he might
purge his people from the fellowship of dead works, so to speak, that
the purest love for him might abound. At any rate the society en-
joyed, at this stage, as large an amount of success as had been realized
at any previous period. We do not speak, certainly, in respect to a
consideration of numbers, inasmuch as it must have reaned numeri-

248 HISTOBICAL SKETOIIKS.

cally, quite an increase since quitting the point of its organization ; but
in respect to those features in spiritual character, which, with a genuine
Christian association, go to make up the most admirable spiritual con-
dition beneath the shining of the sun — brotherly love, love to God, and
the most surprising concurrence of temporal comforts. " There was
only one thing wanting," says our record — "a little more of the fos-
tering care of the Conference, a little more respect on the part of the
preachers." We do not pretend to indorse this statement, either in the
similitude of a fact or an opinion ; much less would we be reckless
enough to attach to it a historical importance. We consider it a mere
murmur, and, as such, entitled to no weight. We think it very probable
that the interests of the society received that deUberation from the
preachers, that annual provision for its necessities which its rank mer-
ited and the ability of the Conference was equal to. At least the facts
and figures of the society in Washington, at that period, justify this
conclusion. We have no possible feeling in the matter ; we only speak
by inspiration of history.

From 1798 to 1805, there were some alterations in the membership,
by removals, deaths, etc., and a few names were added to society ; no-
thing of note, however, took place, worthy of special mention. In the
mean time, the society preserved a noble consistency, having an eye to
a blameless walk and godly conversation. The world beheld in its ope-
rations a beautiful transcript of the religion of the Lord Jesus, as well
a faultless practice of that which the world calls religion — honesty, lib-
erality, and a high moral mind, and was satisfied.

No. IV.

Just here we are reminded of the great good that not unfrequently
unfrequently grows out of camp-meetings. They may be a peculiarity,
yea, an eccentricity, of Methodism ; but the Church has but few auxil-
iaries in which a more sanguine hope may be reposed. It is well enough
to build fine churches for fine people to worship in, but to reach the
multitude you must imitate, somewhat, the judicious plan of the Bap-
tist — locate your efforts in the wilderness. Fine people will reflect be-
fore they " drive out" their religion where their carriage-wheels will be
inconvenienced, but the poor are apt to disregard trifles in the pursuit
of wholesome benefits. To say nothing of the individual profit result-
ing from a prudent use of camp-meetings, the Church draws most of its
nourishment from their full store-houses : they are the concealed soiirces,
so to speak, from which flow Zion's broadest, most fertilizing rivers : it
is but seldom that they do not furnish additional props upon which may
be intrusted some of the most pressing responsibilities. In 1806, Jo-
seph B. Hinton and J. 0. K. WiUiams, during a camp-meeting at Conahoe,
were converted, and returning to Washington, joined the society. The
step thus taken by those young men is said to have favorably influenced
others. We are not informed to what extent the latter was made useful,
how long he continued steadfast in his professions, with what spiritual
prospect he died. We well remember his personal appearance, and be-
lieve that his social position was such as to entitle him to respect. Jo-
seph B. Hinton however, entered into the aims and projects of the

METHODISM IN WASHINGTON, N. 0. 249

society, with a highly creditable earnestness, offering the hospitality of
his roof to the preachers, and striving with great diligence and zeal to
earn a good report for the membership. Perhaps no man of that time,
(with the exception of Ralph Potts, and he was stooping under his
years,) exercised a more beneficial influence, practically considered and
with reference to the detail of business matters, upon the society, both
in its present and perspective, than Joseph B. Hinton. For a season
he was sole steward, and met the annual obligations imposed upon him
with a readiness and enterprise truly commendable. He had learned
his lessons of devotion to the cause of religion in a good school.

Between the years 1805 and 1812 many of the most pious members
of the society rested from their labors; and if the reader will pause at
this simple registry of their names, let him do so with a solemn awe ;
" let a prayer go up to heaven so solemnly the dead may feel no wrong."
Died — the wife of Pialph Potts : she was a friend of the poor, and re-
lieved the necessities of the needy and destitute : she was a mother in
Israel, and her death was, like her life, truly serene and eminently glo-
rious. Died — Thomas Robinson : he was one of the excellent of the
land : he had stood by the Church through seasons of storm and sun-
shine, but angels beckoned him away. Died — Elizabeth Hill, a blind
woman : she loved her class-meetings, and thanked God for the loss
of her sight, because it had weaned her from earth and given her
to the Saviour. Died — Benjamin Pyle, formerly a resident of Fay-
etteville ; he was a pattern of humility, and went with shouting to his
rest. Died — Rev. Covington Simkins : he was a man of strong faith
ana standard piety, of more than ordinary capacity of mind, and
closed his mission with " Come, Lord Jesus, come quickly." Others
may have accompanied these freed spirits to the better land ; we do not
know ; but we think here is the withdrawal of a number sufficient to
have weakened the society if it had grown up to its full stature.

To be sure there were a few coming from the neighboring towns and
districts, and falling into the broken ranks ; but there were vacancies
that could not be filled. It is one thing to embellish the church-book
with names, but another to secure valiant soldiers for Jesus Christ.
The inference may be drawn, however, that those who were the main
dependencies of the society by reason of official position, survived. These
were, properly, the controlling prime agents in the giving of the im-
portant features to its advancing history. A small revival breaking out
about this time, was also efficacious in restoring, somewhat, the wasted
strength of the membership. John McWilliams and others were added,
who doubtless rendered good service and secured the good opinion of
their fellow-workers.

In 1811 the first stationed preacher was sent to "Washington, Rev.
William Wright ; and it became thenceforth generally a station. Bro.
Wright maintained, it is stated, the dignity of his office and the re-
spectability of his charge with a right good will ; that is to say, that
while he knew and regarded the high respect due to his ministerial
character, he prudently avoided giving offense by converting the pulpit
into a throne and placing a chilling distance between him and his peo-
ple ; he more willingly and judiciously sought to bind up the interests
of the preacher and his flock into one bundle. This is what we call
maintaining the dignity of the lioly office, as well as the respectability

250 HISTORICAL SKETCHJiS.

of a charge. The society, on its part, came up hke good men and true
to the help of the Appointing Power. Every preparation that circum-
stances would justify was made, that the preacher might have a good
reception and his situation prove a pleasant one. The meeting-house,
which had before been very uncomfortably arranged, was refitted, the
expense thereof being defrayed without a mark of discontent — a pulpit
and altar were built, backs put to the seats, the interior of the house
painted and a belfry erected. Not orJy so, but at the expiration of the
year the necessary amount to cover the current debt was raised without
a thought of failure. For the improvement of those who stop their
ears against the ring of money in a church, as well as those who start
at the size of the annual demand of these days, we would state that at
a time when they were compelled to worship God in little better than a
barn and were but few, the Methodists of Washington raised $620, and
thought it no trouble.

Fi'om the point at which we became a station, up to this present, we
believe the society has kept untarnished the elevated character which
it obtained in the beginning. That its sensibilities have been preserved
keenly awake, that its spiritual sky has been strewn with clouds of por-
tentous meaning but too frequently, may be readily admitted ; but in
every circumstance and quality peculiar to a firm and faithful religious
association, in eveiy question of law and order that may grow out of
the difficult machinery of a station, it has stood by its colors in the ut-
most extremity. We dare say, the jnemory does not exist that can re-
call a single instance in which it has departed from the plain path of
duty. In guarding the sealed treasury of its rights and privileges from
the pollution of dastard hands, in contributing its portion in due season
to the augmentation of religious influence, in interposing the broad face
of its shield for the defense and support of the Christian ministry, the
Washington station has approved itself worthy of Methodism, In re-
turn, we trust and believe that it has ever received the cordial acknow-
ledgments of the body of the preachers. We do not pretend to say
that other stations can not show as bright a character ; we are only
speaking for ourselves, in behalf of the unceasing labors of our fathers
who are dead.

In 1812, John Giles, a minister of considerable talents, was sent to
the station, but the War leading to his removal, James Avent was ap-
pointed to fill his place. Bro. Avent subsequently located, and has
been living among us ever since. He is the one link connecting us with
that point in the history of the church. Having lived to see all the
familiar faces which were accustomed to greet him at the sacramental
board pass away, the very building in which he officiated razed to the
ground, his associates in the councils of the church gone home, and every
footprint almost of early Methodism washed out by the changing tide,
he yet bears the sword- of battle in his hand. No one, for the last forty-
four years, has struggled harder for the prosperity of Zion than Bro.
Avent. Warmly attached to the "old paths," and pi'oudly alive to the
highest interests of the Society, he has watched with jealous vigilance
everv test it has undergone, and laying "righteousness to the line and
judgment to the plummet," manfuih^ contended for the attainment of
its appropriate position. Through the severest ordeals to which Metho-
dism in Washington has been subjected, in youth and old age he has

METHODISM IN WASHINGTON, N. C. 251

faithfully remained at his post. We know we speak the sentiments of
all when we declare that it will be a sad day that takes him from us.
So accustomed are we to worship with him at the house of God, so im-
pressed at all times with the ardent faith that buoys up the old man's
pilgrimage, so deeply convinced of the extent of our dependency upon
his counsels, that such a calamity would wrap our very hearts in
mourning. It would indeed be said that our master had been taken
from our head to-day.

No. V.

About the year 1815 an unpleasant circumstance occupied the atten-
tion of the society. The oflQcial body felt themselves compelled to sep-
arate between the membership and individuals who, though confided in
hitherto, had forfeited that confidence imposed in them, and merited the
judicial action of the church. Our record considers with much empha-
sis the evils consequent upon this event. It leads us to believe that
much jealousy and bitterness took growth ; that a baneful spirit of
sectarianism became arrayed against us, threatening the peace and
prosperity of the society. We are convinced, however, by a sober re-
view of the matter, -that the interests of Methodism suffered but little ;
that whatever harm eventuated was confined to narrow limits ; that the
high standing of the society continued unquestioned, and that respect
yielded it which before had been so justly accorded. One thing is evi-
dent — that, notwithstanding prominent persons, subsequent to their
separation from us, may have given in their adherence to other religious
demonstrations ; notwithstanding, with " a might and a will," they may
have dedicated their energies and influence to the fulfillment of the de-
mands of their new covenant, they weakened in not one fraction our
previous numerical strength. Let us hope, yea believe, that our fathers
preserved their spiritual strength as well.

We wish to say a passing word, just here, with reference to a subject
which this circumstance calls up. Whatever sectarian feeling, at special
periods, may have been inflamed against us, we make bold to believe
that no settled sectarian policy has obtained, with direct reference to
our advancement, among the ranks of our spiritual rivals. Without
encouraging that stratagem of anti-Christ, pi-oselytism, it is within the
province of every sect, and its bounden duty to further, in an honest
way, its own interests. A7ithin the compass of our memory, we know
that the several denominations in Washington have been acting up to
this principle, and procuring, in a measure, the quality and quantity
of success desired. One has " flown its falcon," for the praise and sup-
port of the ruling element in mere social life — the fashionable and lovers
of pleasure ; another has courted the good-will of the rich, and sought
to lay its basement strong in plenty ; while another, perhaps, has
striven for a still different description of prosperity, and striven not in
vain. There are good men and women, we doubt not, in every one of
them. Between the Presbyterians and Methodists there exists, and,
we presume, has always existed, a marked degree of fellow.ship. The
former exchange what may be termed the courtesies of Christian lilo,
cheerfully and heartily. And we hesitate not to say that, wliaU-vcr
fault we may find with their doctrinal absurdities, they number among

252 UISTOBICAL SKETCHES.

them individuals of genuine piety and are entitled to our warmest ac-
knowledgments. With the other denominations we have no cause of
quarrel, but, at the same time, can designate no particular point of
agreement or cooperation.

In the seven years following the date just mentioned, the society was
called upon to deplore the death of more valuable members. Sisters
Garvin, Elizabeth Young, and Patience Cook were summoned to their
eternal rest. They are alluded to with high commendation, and are de-
clared to have borne brilliant testimony of a living faith in their closing
hours. But perhaps the severest shock was felt in the departure of
those men of God and pillars of his Church, Ralph Potts and Thomas
Smaw. The latter had endeared himself above measure to his fellow-
pilgrims, and fell asleep with an undiminished hope. In the death of
Ralph Potts, the society was literally orphanized. Just before the
breaking of the silver cord, he said to an attendant: "I have long de-
sired to see the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ, and now I am
about to be gratified." He was the one, above all others, to whom the
society looked for aid in its utmost embarrassments.

In 1822, the third revival of which the record gives account, took
place. Perhaps nothing could be said respecting it, better calculated to
impress the mind with its true character, than that now, after the lapse
of thirty-four years, a goodly number are still living to attest to tlie
spiritual benefits resulting from it. The fi-uits of that revival are still
hanging by the bough, patiently awaiting the Master's time to gather
to himself How vividly the memory of past scenes, around the altars
of Methodism, must return to the understanding of such as yet live to
recur to them. Here is substantial comfort for the saddest hours.

The year succeeding the revival, C. S. Cooley wa» stationed in Wash-
ington, and fi:om the description given of his labors, we suppose a min-
ister better suited to make a proper use of the good already accom-
plished, could not have been sent. He is spoken of as " our excellent
Brother Cooley," and it is said that his ministrations were blessed in
the form of sundry valuable acquisitions to the society. No doubt he
yet lives in the affectionate remembrance of many who were benefited
by his instructions.

There remains to be noticed what may rightly be called, an invaluable
branch of the membership — the colored connection. The earliest men-
tion of them takes us back to 1821. We are informed that at that
period, Abram Allen, a colored preacher from Newbern, became a most
successful instrument in proclaiming a free salvation to those of his race,
who were privileged to hear him, and that a considerable gathering-in
of bond and free witnessed to the efiicacious, saving excellency of the
Christian religion. Three years thereafter, in 1827, the colored mem-
bership of the M. E. Church in AYashington numbered more than two
hundred ; a most astonishing success, certainly, when we consider the
shortness of time in which the work was performed. Abram Allen
continued, we believe, to exercise the immunities of his office until set
aside by civil appointment : he is still living among us. We mention
him only as inseparably joined to an important clause in the history of
the society. What action may have been had, on occasions, since the
last-named period with respect to the prominent interests of our colored
friends, it is impossible, with precision, to state. It is rea-sonable to

METHODISM IN WA8UINGT0N. N. C. 253

suppose that, in accordance with the main policy of Methodism, they
have received a due share of encouragement and never sorrowed for a
helping hand. As for back as we can remember, they have filled a
large space in the eye of the Church ; they have had a double portion
of the liberty of worship granted them ; they have received a constant
protection in the performance of their appropriate duties ; they have
taxed the time and talents of the ministry without an instance of re-
pulse, and, nothing we know of to the contrary, done much for the
general good. We have to lament, however, the failure of certain
schemes which would have placed them in a distinct and more agree-
able situation than the one in which they are at present confined. A
disposition to erect a chapel for their separate use, prevailed extensively
at one time. Nothing but the lack of a little zeal and enterprise caused
the failure of the scheme. We yet trust, however, that by the concur-
rence of favorable circumstances and the blessing of the good Lord, we
shall be enabled to perform this simple act of charity for our colored
friends. We are the children of a common parent, though our skins
may differ ; we strive for the same wealth of heavenly grace, though the
riches that perish with their using may throw up impassable barriers
between us ; and we hope for an intercourse hereafter of spirits washed ,
and purified from every stain, though now the unbending ceremonials
of social law divide us. May the gracious God bless and provide for the
humble colored Christian.

As a specimen of the use which our pious ancestors made of time, for
the comfort of some who love the observance of ancient religious cus-
tom, we subjoin the following extract from the record : "On Friday
night, the 31st of December, in company with Brother Puckett and a
number of religious friends, we held a watch-night at Brother Raven's,
and welcomed the ushering in of the new year 1825 on our knees. The
Lord was with us in mercy, and we had quite a comfortable time,"
Thomas C. Puckett is a venerable Christian, and is still fighting the
battles of his Master. He has been a local preacher for many years,
giving his health and energies to the good cause. G.

Washington, N. G.

No. VL

We have now reached a time in the history of the society, beyond
which, in the way of enumerating particular incidents or occurrences,
we do not design to proceed. Indeed, we shall have completed our work
with this communication. We have labored to save from an ignoble
oblivion some imperfect but certain glimpses of the spiritual life of
other and remote generations ; we have striven to put a soul of some
sort under the dead ribs of a story made up of dry, isolated facts ; we
have wanted, in a word, to contribute something ito the steady, increas-
ing light that throws its broad circle around the achievements of Me-
thodism. It was supposed that & fraction of the mere multitude would
Bee something worthy of notice in the antiquity of these things ; that
Methodists of any region or people would be pleased with the recitation
of what the pioneers of their system have accomplished ; that those who
have the very bones of the founders of their Society whitening at tlieir
door-steps would be glad to know who they were and what they diil for

254 HISTORICAL SKETCUES,

the Church ; and, more natural than all, that those who, of later years,
have grown up fresh and strong around Methodist altars, and had pious
ancestors with their energies engaged in the good cause, would be eiated
and encouraged by the slightest remembrances of them. If we have
succeeded in producing the least of these results, we shall be deeply
thankful. But whether we are successful or not, we would not lightly
barter away the solemn but pleasant emotions we have had in recalling
the past. We would exchange, for no paltry consideration, the com-
panionship, though imaginary, of the noble, liberated spirits that now
sing their songs of praise on the other shore. While enduring the ad-
verse circumstances of life with heroic coiu-age, they kept the sincere
service of God the foremost purpose ; they also left an imperishable le-
gacy, the example of a godly walk and devout conversation.

The space of time from 1825 up to this present, has, no doubt, been
fruitful of stirring and oftentimes unaccountable vicissitudes. From
the memories of the elders of the church, casting aside all inaccuracies
of date, a pretty connected and finished history of the society might be
written. But familiarized as every age and sex have become through
that most convenient and interesting channel of knowledge, social inter-
course, with the most minute circumstance that could be rescued from
the darkness of the ages gone, it would be but a work of supereroga-
tion to rcj^eat an oft-told tale. There are a few important facts, how-
ever, which viust be mentioned. They are highly worthy of a distin-
guished place, inasmuch as they are epochs in the growth of the society.
The circumstance of their being known to the majority of those inter-
ested, win not excuse the sin of their omission in this connection;
they point to the genius of Methodism itself in its larger developments.
In 1831 the present house of worship was built, and shortly dedi-
cated. It will compare very favorably with other buildings of a like
character in the State. It is sufficiently large to accommodate our usual
congregation, without resorting to the galleries. For a time subsequent
to its erection it had to suffer the lack of sundry alterations and repairs
which were almo.st absolutely necessary to its convenience and good
appearance. The cupola could never have been suggested by a sound
taste, thovigh an honest one ; the bell, which had been purchased in
1812, by Ralph Potts and Joseph B. Hinton, and transferred to the new
building, was entirely too small, though of a clear, melodious ring ;
there was no vacancy, in the way of a piazza, at the front of the house,
as is very customary and proper in other cases. An inactivity and want
of enterprise was, for a number of years, manifested in respect to these
things. Whether the membership felt itself too poor to undertake im-
provements, or scouted, ab initio^ from principle, all change, whether
for the better or not, we do not know. As stated, a number of years
sped by without any change being enforced; land it was not until
1844—5, that, under the vigorous exertions and masterly superintendence
of the stationed preacher, a new and more creditable aspect of affairs was
introduced. A tall and very genteel spire arose, as if by magic, and
pointed to the clouds ; the cumbersome arrangement of the passage-
ways to the galleries were done away, and a more economical one effect-
ed ; a couple of neat fluted columns were placed as ornaments beneath
the added superstructure ; and lately, a large, sonorous bell has been
calling the faithful to prayer. We yet lack that most useful and indis-

MJ2TU0DISM IN WASHINGTON, N. C. 255

pensable adjunct of a station, a capacious and comfortable parsonage.
There is among us, however, the spirit of earnestness that will one day
accomplish this also ; when our worldly circumstances shall be less em-
barrassed, and we love the good God better.

We have next to advert to the revival of 1840 — decidedly the most
comprehensive, the most thorough, the most imposing in its conse-
quences, of any from the beginning until now. Just such an one, in all
its features, may never be experienced again. It was conducted on the
part of its managers with a skill and a prudence truly surprising. The
stationed preacher, whose capacity in the direction of revivals has
always been held unquestioned, threw himself, under the blessing of
God, mightily -into the work, and the results were wonderful. What
we mean by saying it was comprehensive is, that it took a most ex-
tended hold upon aU ranks of society, traversing every thoroughfare
and by-path, and insinuating its influence wherever dwelt an unregen-
erate heart. We do not think we should hazard much in declaring that,
in some shape, none were entirely insensible to the shock. The church
was refreshed as a giant with new wine, and, to-day, can attribute a
goodly share of its prosperity to that event. Nearly an hundred whites
were added to the membership, while the other denominations laid their
own scythe-blades to the harvest, willing and anxious to reap. Who
of that number will be ripe grain, when "angels shout the harvest
home '?"

In the rear of the church, inserted in the walls, will be seen the tab-
lets of Revs. Chappel Featherston and John T. Brame : the white cold
marble being fitly indicative of the unspotted raiment which they both
now wear, and the chilliness of the prison-houses where their bodies
sleep. The former died at his post, in 1843, deeply lamented by his
mourning charge ; the latter in 184^. The design of these sketches will
not suifer that we lightly pass by the memory of John T. Brame. The
Methodists of Washington claim the title to his ashes, though they sleep
in a distant churchyard. They claim that pilgrims to his shrine, the
worshippers of his genius so early stricken, must first come here to
weep what tears they have to shed.. They claim that the friends of his
bosom, who loved him when the crown of his fiime, so briefly worn,
shone propitious, must pause where he struck the last blow for his God,
if they would be informed of the point to which his intellect was fully
advanced ; of the sweet home, suddenly rendered so desolate, which he
had made at the centre of every heart. We should be treating the
highest merit of the Washington station with contempt, did we not let
the world know that the memory of its dead pastor lives not in the
volume of the tongueless marble only. A multitude of reasons may be
assigned, why he is still so affectionately remembered by the people
among whom he sickened and died. As a preacher, the range of his
influence went far beyond the outposts of his own congregation. It
was a knowledge common to the whole community, that our pulpit,
during his occupation of it, was a point of no ordinary attraction ; it
was felt that, in his pulpit efforts, there would be no mere ostentation
of talents, but the revelation of abilities far above the common level.
His sacred mission, and his spiritual qualifications for it, were alike
thoroughly accredited. He had a ready access to the love and confi-
dence of his charge, by the kindly, social temper that compelled a

256 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

hearty grasp of the coldest hand. He stood up confessed, in the very
outset, before the membership, a thoughtful guardian of their smallest
interests ; for the speedy and very necessary improvements effected by
him, looked solely to the good of his flock. And then, to die so unex-
pectedly, when they were prophesying in their hearts for him a long
and brilliant life — it was truly afflicting. Perhaps no more intense ex-
citement, considering it was a clash of intellects upon a field of discus-
sion, ever seized hold of the public mind of this community, than in
the conflict of Brame with Dr. Ives. An unpretentious Methodist
preacher to cast his glove at the fuet of such an adversary, seemed in
itself a miracle of presumption ; but to make himself acquainted with
his opponent's premises, within a stride of his lawn, and then to ride
with the daring and recklessness of a Cossack over argument and rheto-
ric, was absolutely stunning. The universal public consent acknow-
ledged the victory, but the vibrations thereof have not yet died away.
We mention this circumstance merely because this place was the battle-
field, and because of the important results flowing, not to the Washing-
ton station only, but to the Methodist ministry at large in this State.

The society, at this time, is in a quiet, prosperous condition ; at least
we consider there is no reason to distrust its future advancements.
Under the ministrations of a most excellent, practical, and godly man,
with an official board at once able and efficient, much is to be hoped and
looked for.

Though outside of the original aim of these communications, we
think it right that we should mention a couple of names continued upon
the church register for lo these many years, and which have always
compelled respect and veneration. Brother John Tyler has long and
intimately been connected with the interests of the society, and, at pe-
riods when it needed a strong and fostering hand, contributed largely
to its support. Sister Winnifred Williams is known as widely in heaven
as she is upon earth. So firm and steady in her Christian principles
has she been, so diligent in the administering of relief and comfort to-
many a sick and sinking wayfarer, who remembers her in his heavenly
home ; in a word, so devoted to Methodists and Methodism, at every
stage of her pilgrimage, that her name is a by-word of love and friend-
ship. May we meet them both when they shall wear the crown.

We have now done. With regard to the authenticity of our state-
ments, we will say that we are willing to stand by the record. It is
such testimony as is held in the highest estimation by the civil courts
of the land. We could not think of permitting the usually treacherous
memory of old age to contradict it. Slight inaccuracies have necessa-
rily crept in, but the body of facts, both in the manner and time of
their occurrence, must be unquestionable.

Preachers stationed in Wasliington from 1820 to 1856.

1820. Thacker Muire.

1821. Swain Swift.

1822. Miles Nash.

1823. Charles L. Cooley.

1824. Thacker Muire and Overton Bernard.

1825. Joseph Carle.

METHODISM IK WAYNE COUNTY, N. C. 267

1820. William J. Waller.

1827. John Kerr.

1828. Abraham Harrell.

1829. Leroy M. Lee.

1830. George N. Gregory.

1831. Philip Anderson.
1882. George N. Gregory.

1833. Thales McDonald.

1834. Thomas R. Brame.

1835. James M. Bootright.
183G. Samuel T. Moorman.

1837. Joseph H. Davis.

1838. James E. Joyner.

1839. James D. Lumsden.
1840-il. Ira T. Wyche.

1842. David B. Nicholson.

1843. Chappel Featherston.
1844-45. John T. Brame.
1846-47. N. H. D. Wilson.

1848. S. M. Frost.

1849. Allen S. Andrews.

1850. S. M. Frost.

1851. N. H. D. Wilson.

1852. Henry T. Hudson.
1853-54. Joel W. Tucker.
1855-56. J. H. Wheeler.

Washington, N. G. G.

[From tfie North- Carolina Advocate, Feb. 29.]

Introduction op Methodism into Wayne County, N. C.

Brother Heflin : I am indebted to an official member* of our church
in Goldsboro' foy the following interesting article. We hope similar
contributions will frequently appear in our Advocate.

Affectionately yours, Charles F. Deems.

Goldshoro\ Feb., 1856.

Daniel Deans removed from , Virginia, to Wayne county, N. C,

where he settled on Stony Creek. In 1786 his mind became very much
disturbed about religion ; his conduct was so singular at times that his
neighbors thought him deranged. During one of these seas^s of men-
tal depression, he concluded to visit his birth-place, and while there
he attended a meeting of the Methodists, heard the preaching, was
taught the way of life more perfectly, and experienced the forgiveness
5f his sins. When he returned home, on meeting his wife, he threw
his arms around her and exclaimed : " Elizabeth ! I have seen a man
in Virginia, it is worth a lifetime of labor to see. If I had known how
happy his preaching could make me, I would have travelled the world

* Col. W. 8. G Andrews.
17

258 HISTORICAL SKETCHES.

over to find him. He has promised to come and preach for us, and you
shall hear him and be happy." Shortly after, the " English preacher,"
as he was called, came into the neighborhood. An Englishman named
Watts, who Uved on the east side of Stony Creek, above what is now
called " Rouse's Upper Mill," consented that he should preach at his
house ; and the first sermons of Bishop Asbury were preached at the
house of "Watts. The little framed preaching-stand that he used as a
pulpit can be seen by the curious in the corner of the old church at
Salem. It is yet used for the same purpose, whenever the house will
not hold the congregation and the sermons are preached out-doors. A
few years after Bishop Asbury preached at Watts', a small log meeting-
house was built on the west side of Stony Creek, and called " Dean's
Meeting-house." This house was very rudely constructed of logs with
the bark on ; a hole was cut near the stand for a window and another
for a door, but no door or window was ever put in. Some of the
preachers who officiated in this house were John Buxton, John Kay,

Morris Howe, and Moody. Nothing is now known of them but

that they were men of great zeal, and a constant revival attended their
labors. Some years after, the little class which had been formed at
Dean's, was removed to Sarah Howell's, about two miles west, and near
where the present Salem church stands. Sarah Howell had joined the
church at Watts' ; had lost her husband ; was not in affluent circum-
stances ; had a family dependent upon her ; but she threw open her
doors to the class and the preachers, and for eight years her house was
the preachers' home, as well as the place of worship for the much-
abused Methodists ; at her house there was a constant revival. The
Holy Spirit came down on the congregations, and many pentecostal sea-
sons were given. The whole was a shouting band of Christians. Here
were witnessed those peculiar muscular convulsions called sometimes
"the jerks," but more commonly known then as "the exercise." The
preachers who officiated at Sarah Howell's were Willie Bellamy,

French, Sturtevant, Hince, Sam Garrott, and Henry

Warren.

In 1810 the society had so much increased that it was found neces-
sary to build a new meeting-house. The present S^lem church was
then built. Most of the work was done by John Hooks, Hardy Cooper,
John Deans and George Deans, though the neighbors had what they
called " spells" upon it, hauling timbei', getting shingles, hewing, etc.
After several of the spells, the house was completed, and during the
whole time the church was building the Lord was building up his spi-
ritual Church at Sarah Howell's, there being a constant revival there ;
in fact, the revival influence was constant there for many years. Of
those who built the house, John Hooks and John Deans became preach-
ers, and since that time the society have sent out as itinerants John
Howell, Daniel Deans, Jr., Curtis Hooks, James Alford, Barden H.
Bradbury, and as local preachers, John Aycock, Robert Deans and
Morris Howell ; all of whom have proven useful laborers in the Master's
vineyard ; some of them still survive and are still striving for the
crown, while the most have fought the good fight to the end and gone
up to their reward on high.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES. 259

13-om the Southern Christian Advocate."]

Methodism in Darien, Ga. *

Mr. Editor : It will be remembered that Darien, for years past, was
connected with the Mcintosh mission. While thus recognized as mis-
sionary ground, it received, at times, the attention of the missionary ;
for the most part, however, it was left as a fruitless field, so far as Me-
thodism was concerned. At this low estate, however, it was cut loose
(at our last Conference) from the mission to take care of itself, as best
it could. On my arrival, I found the church was deserted — the books
lost — and Methodism numbered with the things " that were."

However, on the second Sunday in January, nme females declared
themselves Methodists. Since then we have received on probation
thirty-four whites and eighty-two colored. God has blessed us with a
continuous revival, from the beginning of the year. Like the gentle
flowing of the small stream, it has never burst over its banks ; but it
has grown wider and deeper all the time. It is said that there is more
religious investigation and feeling in Darien, at this time, than has been
for years past. Praise to God !

By the way, Mr. Editor, I believe the M. E. 0. was built under your
"administration;" therefore allow me to say to you, that the venerable
edifice has taken on a new "dress," in its old age, and "of the latest
style," at a cost of $150.

There is a most delightful state of things among the colored people.
The Hon. Mr. Rhett, formerly of S. C, is here. He will build a church
on his own property, for the accommodation of his colored people, forty-
two of whom are now members. Methodism is not oisolete in Darien,
as was lelieved. J. M. Austin.

May Id, 1856.

CHAPTER XI.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

The Rev. James H. Mellard.

The Southern Advocate, January 3, says : "A correspondent, E. S.
Ott, Esq., of Fort Browder, Ala., writes : ' In reading in the Advocate
the History of Methodism in Charleston, the writer says of Rev. J. H.
Mellard, that he still lives. Not so— he died on the 18th of November.
[He was alive when the article was written — Editor.] It is strange
that his death has not been recorded in any paper I have seen. He
has been living within twenty-five or thirty miles of me for ten years or
longer. I heard him preach in South-Carolina thirty years ago ; I liave

260 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

heard him, in this State, very often. He was more than a common
man. He rode to camp and quarterly meetings, laboring as long as he
was aWe. It was never too cold or too hot for him. He was ahead of
any preacher I ever knew for energy. His preaching was forcible,
sometimes very eloquent and accompanied by great power. He has
done his work, and done it well. His prayer was answered in his
death — for he departed without a struggle or a groan.' "

IFrom the North- Carolina Advocate, Jan. 4.]
An Ixstructive Incident in the Life of Rev. John W. Coilds.

The name of the Rev. J. W. Childs is associated with my earliest re-
collection. When a very small boy I frequently heard him spoken of, and
always with veneration. He was Presiding Elder on the Yadkin or
Salisbury district, during the years 1833 and 1834. No man ever ap-
peared in that region, whose deep piety, plain mode of life, and heart-
searching sermons awakened such a general interest, and commanded
such universal respect in all ranks of society. I was too young to un-
derstand much of his discourse, or derive much instruction by his blame-
less example ; but hearing so much said about him by others, I was
led to regard him as closely resembling the Apostles themselves in the
purity of his life and the earnestness of his ministry. He has gone
to his reward — peace to his dust, and honor to his memory.

There are many anecdotes in regard to him yet preserved in the
western part of our Conference, which, if collected and published, would
be very entertaining and instructive. The following incident was re-
lated to me about ten years ago, by a worthy member of our Church,
who lives in the bounds of the Salisbury district. I will repeat it as
nearly as I can remember ; and if his eyes should fall upon these lines,
I know that he will not be offended by the pubUcation of this interest-
ing occasion.

Henry (for so we shall call him) was the son of pious parents, who
dedicated him to God in his infancy, and endeavored to train him in
the way he should go. Their worthy Christian example and parental
affection made a salutary impression upon his young mind. He saw
nothing in their conduct inconsistent with their profession ; and con-
sequently he regarded his father and mother with great veneration, and
believed them to be sincere Christians. His father's house was the
home for the preachers, whenever they came round to that appoint-
ment. They generally treated little Henry with a great deal of kind-
ness ; and he, in return, loved them very much, and was always glad
when he saw a minister coming to his father's house. But unfor-
tunately, one year a preacher was sent to the circuit who cared very
little for children ; he disliked for them to come about him ; he never
called them to him, took them in his arms and conversed pleasantly
with them. Little Henry of course soon learned to dislike this morose
preacher ; he conceived a very strong aversion for him, and at length
came to the conclusion that he was not a good man. Thus becoming
prejudiced against one preacher, and not being old enough to discrimi-
nate, his prejudices soon extended to the whole body; he looked upon

INCIDENT IN THE LIFE OF JOHN W. CHILD8. 261

them all with suspicion, and embraced the opinion that these circuit
preachers were all a set of bad men going about the country for selfish
purposes. In short, he became a confirmed infidel ; looked upon reli-
gion as a mere pretense ; when he thought of his father and mother,
and considered their holy example, he said to himself: "I know that
my father and mother are honest and sincere — ^but they are imposed
upon by the delusions of these wicked men called Methodist preachers."
Such was his unhappy state of mind— unbelief was enthroned in his
heart, and he cared not for the authority of God. In vain did his pa-
rents endeavor to show him his error ; in vain did they labor to con-
vince him that if one man was wicked, that was no proof that all were
so ; he persisted in his infidelity, in spite of all their prayers and en-
treaties.

In this juncture of affairs, and at the time above stated, the devoted
Childs came as Presiding Elder on the district. Henry, now a young
man, heardsa great deal about his deep piety and heavenly appearance ;
but still he scorned him in his heart, and would not make his acquaint-
ance. At length a camp-meeting was appointed in that neighborhood ;
his father erected a tent, and moved his family thither to enjoy the reli-
gious privileges of the meeting. This was fine fun for young Henry.
For although he cared nothing for rehgion, and felt contempt for the
ministry, yet he was highly pleased to meet with his young companions
on the outskirts of the encampment, and spend the time in idle amuse-
ment. One evening, feeling somewhat tired of being so much in com-
pany, he concluded that he would take a walk by himself to an orchard
about a mile off, and get some fruit. He did so. After eating as much
as he wanted, he tilled his pockets and started back to the camp ground.
The road being quite circuitous, he determined that he would not fol-
low it, but would go back through the woods, because it was much
nearer. He entered the forest, in which stood many large, majestic
oaks, whose tops were crowned with a thick and beautiful foliage.
Presently he came near a large tree lying prostrate, which had been
blown down only a few weeks before. As this tree had fallen when
the leaves were yet green, they did not drop off, but soon turned yel-
low ; and thus the tree-top thickly covered with golden leaves, formed
a very secluded and quiet retreat. Just as young Henry came up with-
in a few steps of it, he discovered, through the leaves, some strange
object which seemed to be bending over one of the limbs, which ex-
tended horizontally near the ground. He paused to see what it was.
To his utter astonishment he beheld the pious Childs there in the tree-
top upon his knees, reading his Bible, which was spread open on the
limb before him ! At the same moment Mr. Childs discovered him,
and fixed his eyes upon him intently, but he did not speak a word.
Henry was amazed. His Umbs trembled, and his heart throbbed vio-
lently. He stood there some moments, luiable to move in any direction.
And that man of God, down there on his knees, still looked up at him
full in the face, and his eyes seemed to penetrate into Henry's inmost
soul. Never did Henry feel so awful in all his life before. At length
he recovered himself a little from the shock, turned away in another
course, and made his escape fi'om the presence of that man of God.
But he could not shake off the conviction which had seized upon him.
For the thought rushed upon him with irresistible power, that Mr.

262 BIOGEAPHICAL SKETCHES.

Chilcls must be a good man, and his preaching must be the word of
God : "The man who will come out here and get down upon his knees
in a tree-top to read his Bible, is no hypocrite — he is a true Christian
— and by the help of God, I will never stop praying till I obtaift the
same rehgion that he has!" His determination was fixed. He re-
turned to the encampment deeply concerned for the salvation of his
soul, went into the altar as a penitent the first opportunity, and was
powerfully converted. The last time 1 heard from him, he was a very
consistent and useful member of the Methodist Church.

This incident teaches the great importance of private devotion. This
was a prominent feature in the Ufe of Childs — he was a man of prayer.
Hence his angelic piety, his heavenly countenance, and the unusual
power which attended his ministrations.

This incident also teaches us to be very careful in our intercourse
with children. An unguarded expression may destroy their confidence,
excite their prejudice, and prove their ruin. We should make little
children feel that we love them, take them in our arms, instruct them,
pray for them, and thus lead them to heaven. S. M. F.

Wilmington, K C, Jan. 1st, 1856.

[Fr07n the Nashville Christian Advocate."]
Rev. John. Lane. .

In the month of October, 1823, the Rev. Thomas Clinton and myself
were holding the first camp-meeting ever held in Western Louisiana, in
the rear of the plantation of John Danwody, Esq., a little above Cha-
ncy ville, on the Bayou Boeuf. The meeting had been undertaken with
fear and trembling — not only because the institution was entirely new
in the country, but because it was known to us that our presiding elder,
the Rev. Ebenezer Hern, would not be with us, from the state of his
health — we were both young in the ministry — there was but one local
preacher, to our knowledge, west of the Mississippi, and no other tra-
velling preacher — we had earnestly implored help from the east of the
river. It was late on Thursday evening ; our little encampment was
pretty well occupied, and the songs of Zion had commenced to ascend
from a few feeble voices ; a small company of gentlemen were seen to
ride up ; in a moment I recognized the countenance of my much-esteemed
friend, the Rev. Daniel De Vinne. I hastened to the spot, and was in-
troduced to Col. John Richardson, of Wilkinson Co., Miss., and, to my
unspeakable satisfaction, to the Rev. John Lane, then a located pi*eacher,
and residing near Vicksburg. He and Brother De Vinne had travelled
more than one hundred and fifty miles, and crossed the terrible Missis-
sippi Swamp, for no other business than to attend that little camp-
meeting. It was by that dim twilight that I first saw the benevolent
features of that dear friend, whose obituary I now sit down to write.

Rev. John Lane was born in Fairfax Co., Va., April 8, 1789, and was
the youngest child of AVm. and Nancy Lane. When quite young, his
parents removed to Elbert Co., Ga. When about grown, he was a
pupil of Franklin College — perhaps the earliest institution of learning
under Methodist patronage after the splendid failure of Cokesbury Col-

KEV. JOHN LANE. 263

lege, in Maryland. This, too, proved a failure ; but Cokesbury was tho
Alma Mater of Valentine Cook, and Franklin of John Lane. It is not
probable that this latter institution ever adopted a full college course ;
and it is certain that the subject of our notice did not take such a course ;
yet the moral and spiritual results of that immature and short-lived
effort at training the young mind continues to be felt to the present day.
Such men as Joseph Tarpley and Hop. Hull could scarcely fail to make
their mark on the young, however short the time they were under their
influence. It was the preaching of the latter which proved the power
of God unto salvation to young Lane. Soon after his conversion, he
thought himself moved by the Holy Ghost to preach the Gospel ; and
shortly after, he was admitted on trial in the South-Carolina Conference.
At the end of two years, he was ordained deacon, and transferred, by
Bishop McKendree, to the Mississippi Conference, then just about to be
organized in 1816. He was at the first session legally held by this body,
at the house of William Foster, Esq., Pine Ridge, Adams Co., Miss.
This Conference is reported in the printed Minutes of 1817, but was
really held in the fall of 1816. Bishop Roberts presided: probably his
first presidency. Ten men then filled the work from the Sabine to the
Chattahoochie, and from the Gulf of Mexico to the Tennessee River. Of
this little but devoted band four still linger among us, and bring forth
fruit in old age : that is to say, Peter James, Thomas Owens, Thomas
Nixon, and Elisha Lott.* May their leaf continue green, and may the
dew lie all night on their branches !

After filling the most impoi'tant and laborious appointments in this
vast missionary field for some five or six years. Brother Lane was united
in marriage to Miss Sarah Vick. She was the eldest daughter of the
Rev. Newit Vick, whose children reached to the patriarchal number —
twelve. Shortly after this marriage, the father and mother of this large
family died the same day. Brother and Sister Lane then became the
natural guardians of these helpless orphans. Mr. Vick had left a large
estate, but in a very unsettled condition. Nothing but constant atten-
tion and unwearied diligence could preserve to the family the means of
rearing and education. This laid the necessity on Brother Lane, as he
believed, to locate. For some ten years he strove manfully and with
great energy to preserve a competence for the large family of his fiither-
in-law, and to sustain his own. During most of this time he held, with
honor to himself, and advantage to the public, the office of Probate
Judge of Warren county. But he was ill at ease in any thing but the
regular work of an itinerant Methodist preacher. Though God had
seemed to prosper him in his worldly concerns, insomuch that great
wealth seemed almost in his grasp, yet .all did not quiet his conscience.
The fields, white for the harvest, waved before his imagination, and "Go
work in my vineyard !" ever sounded in his cars.

The Conference of 1822 was held in Vicksburg, for the first time.
Brother Lane had been the supply in that city for the first time that it
had been considered a station. The harness was partly on. His old
and fast friend. Bishop Andrew, presided. Many of the preachers found
a delightful home under his hospitable roof The influences were too
strong to resist. Setting aside all merely worldly influences, he buckled

* Dr. Winans was local at that time.

264 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCUES.

on the itinerant armor, which he laid not off again until the Master
bade.

With very few exceptions, from that time he travelled the most ex-
tensive districts of our Conference — requiring his absence from home
and worldly business more than any work that could be legitimately
assigned him — yet he murmured not, faltered not. His high pecuniary
credit caused him to be often applied to as security for his friends ; his
kind heart rarely answered no. He was director of almost all the moneyed
corporations in his vicinity, president of the Railroad Company and
Bank,, and had about this time, perhaps, more pecuniary transactions
than any one in fifty miles of his residence. It is not wonderful that,
when tiie extreme pressure of 1836, '37, '38, 39, came on, he was
found much involved. I heard him say, not long before his death, that
within the last few years he had paid more than a hundred thousand
dollars security debts, for which he had not received one dime. During
this protracted struggle, it sometimes appeared that he must lose all,
and be reduced to beggary. But none of these things moved him.
Having put his hand to the itinerant plough once more, he looked not
back. His appointments were filled — all filled, I may say — for nothing
but sickness ever kept him from them. Sometimes they were in the
immediate vicinity of Columbus and Grenada, then in the extreme south-
western part of the State, or as high up the river as Lake Bolivar ; yet,
punctual as the hour arrived, the man of God was in his place ; nor did
he leave until the last amen was said. Much of this latter period of his
itinerancy he was quite corpulent and heavy, and often sufi'ered painful
infirmities ; but it was not in the power of them all to keep him from his
work. I can truly say, that I never knew a man so pressed with
worldly cares, and so encompassed with infirmities and disabilities, who
held out so long and so faithfully in the itinerant field. Next to his God
and his family, the itinerant system and itinerant ministers lay nearest
to his heart. Could that heart be dissected now, we might almost ex-
pect to find engraven upon some of its inmost folds. Itinerant. He
loved his brethren in the ministry with a pure heart, fervently. He
seemed to hold his earthly possessions as a common stock for their use.
While he had the means, no Methodist preacher could want, from a
meal's victuals up to a horse and saddle.

This is the proper place to remark that, while he laid all upon the
altar of duty, making a perfect sacrifice of every worldly hope, God,
as in the case of Abraham, did not permit all to be taken. He said : " It
is enough: now I know that my servant honoreth me." He was near
meeting all his responsibilities, and, as I learn, leaves his family quite
comfortable.

It was his fate — as it is of almost every man who has the misfortune
to be deeply involved — to have some think hard of him for a time, be-
cause he was not always able to meet his engagements ; and some may
have blamed him for attempting to hold on to any portion of his pro-
perty in some of his extremities. But it is presumed that all accord to
him honesty of purpose, as he never, to my knowledge, repudiated a
debt, cither original or security.

His health had rather faltered since the fall of 1854, from a violent
attack of derangement of the bowels, greatly exaggerated by his deter-
mination to meet all of his last quarterly meetings on the Lake AVash-

REV. JOHN LANE. 265

iii;:!;ton District. Such was his enfeebled state at our Conference, in
Jackson La., that the superintendent did not think it safe for him to
unJortake the labors of a district. But he would not hear of superan-
nuation, but undertook the labors of a small circuit near his residence.
But for him to undertake, was to do : hence no cold or heat, no wet or
dry, prevented him from being at his appointments, small or great. He
was seen riding through the severest weather of last winter, to the dis-
tance of fifteen or twenty miles, with only the hope of meeting a half-
dozen hearers. His wonted health was not restored. To this we may
probably attribute his falling a victim to yellow fever. He had been in
the midst of all the yellow fevers which ever visited Vicksburg ; in many
instances he had nursed the sick and bui'ied the dead. But his enfeebled
frame could no longer resist the fell destroyer. Early in October he
was attacked, and, after suffering a few days, on the 10th he fell asleep
in the arms of Jesus. " Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright,
for the end of that man is peace." So was the end of our much-beloved
friend. When informed that he must die, he said : " I am ready : I
have been living for this all my life. Tell my brethren of the Confer-
ence that I love them sincerely. I have made many sacrifices for the
itinerant work. I count this nothing. I simply cling to the blood-
stained banner of the cross. All is peace." His words of parting with
his wife and children were too tender to repeat here : the scene was one
for a painter, not a biographer. His youngest son, ill of the same dis-
ease, came to receive the parting blessing when too ill to leave his bed.
His wife, too feeble to walk, was carried to the bedside to gaze, for the
last time on earth, on that countenance which had so often cheered her
in hours of gloom. But there was no darkness there ; like the houses of
the Israelites, there was light in that house. Through the gloomy val-
ley they all saw the radiance of eternal day bursting upon them. A
few short days, and John Massillon and Eugenia followed his triumphant
flight. The latter said, among her last words : " There is father come
to be my escort. So he is still about his Master's work. Happy spirit!
who loved so well to go on his Master's errands, now has wings to go
with the speed of lightning. May I see his heaven-beaming face when
I approach the dark valley ! "

Brother Lane was somewhat above the ordinary stature, finely pro-
portioned, and of an exceedingly comely countenance. He was one of
those men who, when seen in the assembly of the elders, would always
arrest the attention of the looker-on, and he would always inquire who
he was. There was more of gravity, dignity, and quiet in his ap-
pearance, than of sprightliness ; yet his humor was inexhaustible ; no
toilsome day or wearisome night could stop its current, which was ever
welling up. If he had a ministerial fault, (and who has not?) it was
excessive love for humorous anecdote. In the pulpit he was always
grave — generally pathetic. His own heart felt intensely, as his flowing
tears often testified. He rarely dwelt on the terrors of the law, and
then with manifest pain ; but on the promises of the Gospel he dwelt
with ecstasy. His voice was remarkably harmonious : its tones were
perfect music. He was graceful in the pulpit — his elocution very unex-
ceptionable. His mind was finely balanced : no power in extravaganza
— none defective. Yet he was not considered a great preacher, or a pro-
found theologian— not because he was incapable of either — but from the

200 BTOGRAinilCAJL SKETCHES.

force of circumstances. He was early sent a missionary to this — at that
time — uncultivated country. His rides were long — his opportunities
for retirement few — books were scarce. His social habits, too, were
unfriendly to much study. Soon he was involved in such an amount of
pecuniary responsibility, and so many worldly cares, as to preclude the
possibility of much study. This pressure continued necessarily on him
after his return to the itinerant ranks — together with the onerous and
dissipating duties of the presiding elder's office. But, with all these
disadvantages, he was an instructive, pleasing, and effective preacher.
His zeal was not the meteor's glare, but the steady light of the ever-
rolling planet. He instructed the children everywhere, and was loved
by them as a father. Many of the hymns now sung by the middle-aged
portion of our Church, in this part of the country, were committed for
Uncle Lane, thirty -five or forty years ago. Oh ! how much good seed he
cast beside all waters ! His personal piety was deep and sincere : it was
that old-fashioned Christianity which not only gave a principle of action
for his life, but strong consolation, having fled for refuge to the hope set
before him. His was a religion that could be felt and enjoyed.

I have said for many years he was a leading man in all the public im-
provements and financial transactions in Vicksburg : in fact, he was the
author of the city, having laid it out, and sold the lots, in the execution
of the will of the Rev. Newit Vick.

As a citizen, Brother Lane was preeminent for his hospitality and
kindness to all classes of people. His.bland and saintly manners were
well suited to the most refined circles ; but his condescension put him
vipon a level with the poorest and most illiterate. He was truly a father
to the poor. The widow and orphan found a never-failing friend in him.
His house seemed as free to his numerous friends as a public house of
entertainment. So constant were his hospitalities, that I heard him say,
that at the end of twenty years, as a house-keeper, he sat down with his
family alone at table for the first time. The Church delighted to honor
so true a friend, and so faithful a son. He was the first President of the
Board of Trustees of Centenary College, which office he held so long as
the College was located in Mississippi. He was a delegate to almost
General Conference to which he was eligible. As early as 1820, he was
a member of that body, and was one of the immortal fifteen who stood
up against the innovation of making the office of Presiding Elder elective.
Small as was was that minority, their doctrine finally prevailed, and is
now the universal doctrine of the Church. In his domestic relations he
shone preomincntly. He was the centre of the happy home circle. But
here I tread on ground too delicate to bring before the vulgar gaze : a
stranger intermeddleth not with their joys. May that circle, unbroken,
in due season unite again ! B. M. Dbake.

MagiioUa Springs, Miss., December, 1855.

[From the S. C. Advocate, Feb. 1.]

The Rev. James H. Mellard and "J. N."

The mention of the name of James H. Mellard in the sixteenth number
of F. A. M.'s " Methodism in Charleston," brings to mind the recollection

REV, JAMES II. MELLAK1> ASl) " J. N." 2UV

of some of his achievements as a minister of Christ Jesus, when quite a
youth. After an absence of some months I returned home about the
middle of the year 180-i and found him a member of my fatlier's house-
hold. I soon learned that when he commenced preaching in George-
town, he found that but few attended the Methodist place of worship.
He determined to go to the highway and seek for hearers. Accordingly,
at a proper hour of the day, he took a stand on Crosby's platform, near
the Market house, and commenced religious service without a herald.
The novelty of this act soon drew attention and attracted some to hear.
T.ie monarch of depravity who had a seat in Georgetown, excited the
j>eo2>le to resistance, and they came, some in military costume, and with
the aid of drum and bugle, endeavored to render his voice ineffectual ;
but it prevailed above the soundly-thrashed drum and the fiercely -blown
bugle, and its sonorous notes pealed through the air, conveying to those
attcnt the tidings sent. Sampit River rolled its waves in close proxim-
ity to the spot he stood on. They threatened to immerse him in it, but
lie quailed not — standing at his post until he closed his service.

It proved to be an auspicious move. After that essay, the people
Hocked to the proper place of worship, and he had the satisfaction to
preach to crowds. Many were awakened and joined the Church during
that year, and the authorities judged it best to continue him, and sent
him back the ensuing year. But though he labored with unabated zeal
and the confidence of a victor under prescient guidance, yet there was a
falling away ; to prevent which he strove by persuasion, entreaty, and
tears, but it availed not, and his tenderness forbade expulsion. At
length, those who had the authority silenced him three months, and
sent J. N. to enforce the general rules.

Both of them resided at my father's. I had the opportunity of becom-
ing intimately acquainted with them. Writing from the impress of
wliat I saw more than half a century since, J. N. appeared in stature
respectable, with a grave, stable countenance, seldom altered by a smile,
inflexible and rather stern in disposition, rigid in movement and of un-
handing integrity. In fact we minors of the family found it expedient
to walk straight under his supervision, in order to avoid his scathing
rebukes. He taught us to stand still in proper attitude at table before
he said grace, and every impropriety of speech received his corrective
instruction. To stand in awe of him was an instinctive consequence.
He was at that time professedly averse to eating swine's flesh. His
organs of taste seemed unaffected with the savor of it even when fried,
until after he entered into a matrimonial alliance with the daughter of
a former, soon after which he wrote to me that "good bacon tasted very
well." The fiirmer knows that a garden of collards requires bacon, and
that both together are' his main support. This observation may be
irrelevant.

I turn to the impression I have of James H. Mellard. He was in
person slim, rather pale, but healthy looking, with an open, lively,
pleasant countenance, inviting, cheerful, and fomiliar, and of most
friendly disposition, producing the impression on first acquaintance tliat
in him there was no guile. He gave sufficient proof of po.ssessing much
energy and decision, although an excess of tenderness deterred him
from putting his spiritual sons out of the home of his affections — t'u-
association of the good. Parental tenderness can appreciate surli

268 IIIOGKAPHICAL SKETCHES.

weakness. Tno apostle Paul was conscious of his strength when he
suffered his sympathies to make him appear weak. In the close I
would say, his portrait engraved on the tablet of memory lies before
me. I have never seen its counterpart ; but " he is yet alive." Should
he read this product of friendship, 1 request that he may not recoil
from the shock, but stand up and measure the stature of his age, and
ascertain how far the ripening influence of the grace of our adorable
Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ hath perfected the graces that adorned
his youth. The maturity of love is the property of age. I do not
mean infidel age. F. A. W.

[Our esteemed correspondent, who sent this article in, some weeks
since, has doubtless learned by a recent number of the Advocate that
his old friend has been gathered to his fathers. — Ed. S. C. Advocate.

[From the Nashville Adv., Feb. 14.]

Rev. Wili-iam Bukke.

It will be remembered that we have already announced the death of
this venerable and distinguished minister. Dr. Schon preached his
funeral discourse on the second Sabbath of Januarj^, a brief notice of
which we copied last week. We now have the pleasure of presenting
"the following sketch which Dr. Sehon has furnished at our special re-
quest. We give it a prominent place in our columns, knowing that it
will be read with peculiar interest by many of our patrons. Mr. Burke,
as will be seen in the sketch, was one of the committee of fourteen, who
in 1808, drafted a constitution for the regulation of the General Con-
ference of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The committee consisted
of Ezckiel Cooper and. John Wilson, from the New- York; George Pick-
ering and Joshua Soule, from the New-England ; William McKendree
and William Burke, from the Western ; William Phoebus and Josias
Handle, from the South-Carolina; Philip Bruce and Jesse Lee, from
the Virginia; Stephen G. Rozel and Nelson Reed, from the Baltimore;
and John McClasky and Thomas Ware, from the Philadelphia Confer-
ence. All these worthies, we believe, have now passed away except
the venerable Bishop Soule, It is remarkable that the two last sur-
vivors of this able and important committee, though they both resided
in Ohio at the time, adhered to the Southern Methodist Episcopal Churcli
in the separation of IBM. This, of itself, speaks volumes. But to the
sketch :

Dear Bkotuer McFerrin : Below is the biographical sketch offered
in the funeral-sermon of the Rev. William Burke.

The sermon was preached by the writer, at the request of our de-
parted and venerable brother, and at the earnest solicitation of his fam-
ily and friends.

^Ve were politely and affectionately invited to deliver the same in
Wesley Chapel, Cincinnati. A very large audience was present — all
the different churches being largely represented, both in the ministry
and membership. This was truly gratifying to the writer, compliment-
ary to our departed brother, and honorable to them. The closing ser-

I REV. WILLIAM BURKE. 269

vices were conducted by Dr. Elliott. "We give the following remarks
as we hastily jjrepared and read them, in hope that some one will more
fully present the life, history, and character of this aged and venerable
man of God. E. W. Seuon.

Rev. Wm. Burke was born in Loudon county, Virginia, on the 13th
of January, 1770. His parents early became members of the Methodist
Church, joining the same in 1780. His father was one of the first to
take up arms in defense of his country. As one of the minute-men
enrolled under Col. Powell, he performed most effective service in dif-
ferent sections of the army's operations, was at the taking of Cornvval-
lis, at Yorktown, where, in common with many of his fellow-soMiers,
his sufferings were very great. His mother was remarkable for her
great prudence and courage. At that early period she would walk for
miles to hear the preaching of God's word. In 1780, both of his pa-
rents joined the Methodist Church. Shortly after this, when but eleven
years of age, he himself was most deeply impressed upon the subject
of religion ; but by degrees these convictions, from his associations with
the world, were weakened, and gradually wore away.

The means of education were very limited in those days in that part
of the country ; consequently, in his own language, he says : " I was
limited to what was then called an English education ; all of which I
completed in the years 1785 and 1786." Speaking of his course about
this time, he adds that: " He became very wild. My dear mother was
very pious, and I was her darling boy. The course I was then pirsuing
gave her much pain. She used every means in her power to dissuade
me from it, and used to pray for me day and night."

How powerful a mother's prayer's ; how deep their memory in the
heart ! They were, under God, blessed to him, while to the latest hour
of his life he cherished their memory, and gratefully acknowledged their
iniluencc. In the latter part of the year 1790, he was awakened under
the ministrj'^ of Rev. Isaac Lowe, and in a few months afterwards joined
the Church, and was happily converted to God. He was one of the
first fruits of a great revival. The people crowded by hundreds to hear
tiie word preached, by day and night. He would often go five or six-
miles of a night to hold and attend meetings. He was licensed to preach
in the fall of 1791, and admitted on trial in 1793, and appointed to th(
West New River Circuit, on the head-waters of the Kenhawa, in Vir-
ginia. This was a four weeks' circuit, and between four and five hun-
dred miles around it. The country is high, mountainous, and co'd.
The labor to be performed and work accomplished on such a circuit
can not be well conceived. How strong must have been the constitu-
tion to endure such severe and continuous labors ! Such was the com-
mencement, early training, and tuition of our departed brother. Under
the most forbidding circumstances, and to fields most uninviting, he
went forth, leaving the world, with all its allurements and temptations,
to labor for Christ. He conferred not with flesh and blood : the vow
of God was upon him ; and souls, immortal souls, appealed to him for
the offers of salvation.

* * * Ht *

For twenty-six years he labored most effectively in Virginia, Ohio,
Kentucky, and Tennessee. Passing through all the varieties of hard-

270 KIOOUAPUICAh SIvETCUES.

ship incident to a pioneer life — encountering difficulties sufficient to
make the stoutest heart quail, and constantly calling for the exercise of
the greatest endurance and the firmest courage. In his autobiograpiiy,
published by himself, he gives some of the most thrilling scenes and
adventures in the history of the early settlement of our western coim-
try — exposures in the wilderness, when surrounded and pursued by a
savage foe — in many instances having to travel with arms prepared,
being in constant expectation of attack. All these speak of the ■ man ;
and forcibly declare his fearless courage, his pure piety, and his decj)
devotion to the interests of his dying fellow-men. During this time,
he was the gracious instrument of as much, if not of more good, in
the ministry than any of his fellow-laborers. Who has not heard of
his labors in Kentucky, Virginia, and Tennessee — those remarkable
basket and camp-meetings where hundreds were converted to God ? It
is said by those who knew him well, many years ago, that his voice was
remarkable for its great compass and power — and that in clearest ringing
tones, the mo.st distant hearer of the thousands who flocked to these
meetings heard from him the messages of God. He was early honored
with the confidence of the ministry and membership of the Church.
He was the first Secretary of an Annual Conference in America, and
one of the committee of fourteen, in the General Conference of 18(8,
appointed to di'aft a constitution for the regulation of the General Con-
ference. But one of that committee of fourteen now remains — but
" one sole lingerer left on the shores -of time" — the llev. Joshua Soule,
Senior Superintendent of the M. E. Church, South.

What associations are presented to the mind from the mention and
con.sideration of these facts ! The fathers and early actors in the his-
tory of our country and Church are rapidly passing away. We should
honor them living, and sincerely mourn them dead. They connect us,
in their life and history, with the earliest periods of the history of our
Church and country. The very mention of their names brings before
us afresh the privations and sufferings of pioneer life, and the sacrifices
and labors of the self-denying missionaries who first preached the Gospel
in other sections, and to the first settlers of the great Valley of the Mis-
sissippi.

To the list of the departed — our venerable Kobler, McCormick, Col-
lins, Sale, Parker, Lakin, Gatch, etc., etc. — we now add the name of
our venerable departed friend and brother, Wm. Burke. Their names
should he cherished — their memories forever be fresh and green in our
hearts. Psissing over the intervening years, I would now approach the
period in his history when he was first stationed in the city of Cincin-
nati. This was in the fall of 1811. He says: "In the fall of 1811 I
was appointed to Cincinnati Station, it being the first station in the
State of Ohio. I organized the station ; and many of the rules and
regulations that I established are still in use. We had but one church
in the city; and it went under the name of the Stone Church. I
preached three times on every Sunday, and on Wednesday night; and
while stationed in that house, my voice failed me." Could it be won-
dered at, that amid labors so great and so constant, his voice — " that
clear, ringing voice" — should fail ? How solemn the recollections in-
duced, by reading his account of this period and place of his ministry !
Where are the listening hundreds who then worshipped in the " Old

liEV. VVILWAM JJUiilvK. 271

Stone" — the spii-itual classic ground of Methodism in Cincinnati ?
Wliere in the ministry are your Cummings, Parkers, Sales, etc., etc. ?
and where your Richardsons, Lyons, Spencers, Halls, Hustons — the
venerable Mother Carter and her sainted daughter Dennison ; where,
where are these, and the many more who might be named? Alas!
echo answers, where? While yet, blessed be God, his word assures us
they are not ; for God has taken them ! Blessed thought ! they rest
tbrever from their labors, and their works follow them. But a few —
very few — of these venerable members of the Church of Christ yet
live upon earth. In the providence of God, I see before me to-day one
who then shared in the joys and sorrows of those days — one still living
in your midst — still going in and out before the people of God. May
the blessing of God to-day rest upon our venerable Father Nelson, and
he be still long spared to the Church.

In the midst of the labors, arduous and active, of Brother Burke in
this city, his health gave way — his voice failed. For twenty-six years
he had most effectively and foithfully labored in the travelling con-
nection; but now, with great sorrow, deep and heart-felt regret, he
was compelled to leave the effective ranks, and be returned supernu-
merary. In this, and a superannuated relation, he passed the remain-
der of his valuable life. With regret, as we have said, he received this
relation ; but in this relation, it must have been very grateful to him,
and honorable to us now to mention, that from his character and con-
duct, he possessed the entire confidence of the Church and community
in which he lived.

His fellow-citizens delighted to honor him, and in the language of
one who knew him well and long, any civil office in the gift of the peo-
ple was within his reach. He was appointed one of the judges of the
county, and most faithfully and impartially administered the duties of
his office. In 1814, he was, through the influence of one whose fi-iend-
ship he ever valued, appointed Post-master of this city. For twenty-eight
j^ears he continued under successive administrations of the Government
to hold this office, and most honorably and faithfully to discharge its
heavy and responsible duties — almost a lifetime filling one of the most
responsible stations and offices in the country, and passing through that
wiiole period of service without a charge or complaint against him.
For the last few years of his life, his enjoyments in the Churcli and
service of God seemed to increase. It was a great pleasure to him to
recount the history of the past — to gather fresh courage from a recol-
lection of the goodness and mercy of God, as witnessed by himself —
while his language was alike streugthening and supporting to those
v/ho heard him.

He was an able minister of the New Testament — one of the first men
of his day — a strong man in our Israel, From the first of his ministry,
he was a hard student, and being blessed with great vigor of under-
standing, strength of judgment and clearness of apprehension, his at-
tainments were proportionably great. Theological learning was indeed
the leading object of his pursuit as a student, j^et his mind was richly
stored with general and useful knowledge. Literature and science
were by him earnestly pursued only to be made handmaids to Christi-
anity — such was his opinion and such his course. His preaching was
always illustrated and sustained by ilhistrations and facts from Scrip-

2Y2 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

ture. He was indeed a scribe well instructed in the mysteries of the
kingdom of God. He never handled the word of God deceitfully, or
cried peace when there was danger. He spoke because he believed,
and feithfuUy warned his dying fellow-men, and equally as faithfully,
as a minister of consolation, uttered in their ears the promises of God.

He was a sincere and faithful friend, and a safe and most valuable
counsellor. Such he was for many years to the speaker, and to many
who hear me. In his intercourse in life, he was ever kind — ever ready
to do an act of kindness to those whom he had it in his power to oblige.
In his family, he was all that that sacred relation demands — the kind
and aiTectionatc husband, and faithful friend and protector of those ini-
der his care. Having no children, he always had in his fiimily several
young persons, whom he reared as kindly as though they were his own
sons and daughters. His merits as a citizen — his character as a Christ-
ian, and his qualifications as a minister are all before you and known by
you ; it is not, therefore, necessary for me to detain you further by re-
ference to them.

He being dead yet speaketh to you. With characteristic energy, he
labored actively in business for his own support, until visited by the
hand of disease. To the friendship of the present Post-master of Cin-
cinnati, he was gi'eatly indebted for his kindness in affording him em-
ployment, and thus and otherwise contributing to his support. The
same may also be said of many other kind friends.

He was spared long upon earth, and generally enjoyed good health ;
but for some time past, in common with his friends, he anticipated the
hour of his departure to be near at hand. During his long confinement,
and the gradual wasting away of his life, he expressed the firmest trust
and reliance in the mediation of his Saviour — his fullest confidence
in God and resignation to his will. During his illness, and a short
time before his death, we saw him, and conversed and prayed with him.
He was cheerful and happy — ready, like the Apostle, to say, " I have
fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith,"
etc. " death ! where is thy sting — grave ! where is thy victory y"
From his bereaved companion, and a friend who often visited him,
we learn he continued thus resigned and patient, comforted by the
rich promises of the Gospel, and strong in faith in his God, until at
length, on the 4th of December, 1855, with him the weary wheels of
life stood still, and he calmly and peacefully fell asleep in Jesus.

When no longer able to speak, in answer to the kind questions of his
weeping wife, he raised his hands in token of peace and victory, and
ti'iumph in death. He has gone, at the end of a long and useful life —
he is not, for God has taken him. May Almighty God indeed sanctify
this afflictive dispensation of his providence to the good of his bereaved
family, the Church of God. and this whole community in which he
lived.

[From the Richmond Christian Advocate, Feb. 20.]
Rev. William L. Blanton.

New-Orleans, Feb. 7th, 1856.
Bro. Lee : My usual interest in the " Old Richmond" led me along
its familiar columns tliis morning. The first article T lighted upon, (the

KEV. WILLIAM L. liLANTON. 27o

copy of Jan. 31,) called up memories, pleasant and painful — the article
on the dead ministers of the Virginia Conference. The writer opens :

" While reading over the list of appointments for the Va. Conference,
for the year 18i4, my heart grew sad. This year I became a member
of the Conference. She numbered ninety-one preachers in the regular
work. Eleven years seem but a short period; yet, in those eleven
years, twenty odd have died, thirty-six have located, been transferred,
or are engaged in teaching, etc., leaving only thirty odd of the ninety-
one then iu the Conference, now engaged regularly in preaching."

Several precious names are dwelt upon, as passed in review. The
mortaUty has certainly been gi-eat — it would be so counted even in
these regions — ^and the marks shining ones. How is it that no biogra-
phies have been wrought out of such a wealth of material ? You have
subjects. And as to writers, you have them ; for I know of no body
of ministers whose average cultivation reaches that of the Virginia
Conference.

One name on the roll — that at the head of this paper — I beg to pay
a tribute to. William Lindsay Blanton has been dead several years.
I had left Virginia, and the news reached me in Mobile, Alabama,
through the Advocate^ in the latter part of 1846. It smote upon my
heart heavily. The sensation of pain at his loss was limited — for he
was young and known in his full merits to few — ^but it was profound.

We were brought together first at Randolph Macon, and enjoyed our
last fellowship in labor, on the Prince Edward Circuit.

There were some things about my dear friend, note-worthy in their
degree, as well as character.

It matters not that he died too early to have done great works ; I
think he is in heaven on the score of the " pure in heart." How he
tugged, and grubbed, and fasted, and prayed over any root of bitterness
that experience or self-examination discovered! "I cannot rest till
pure within," seemed to be his motto. His dress and person were
scrupulously neat, but his face was often foul with weeping. He fasted
every Friday.

A fellow-student visiting his room, would sometimes receive no
answer to his knock. Afterwards it appeared that Blanton was in his
room. He had shut to his door, and would not be broke off fi:om com-
muaing with his Father in secret. He was fond of companionship, but
thought it no slight to his best friends to prefer Jesus. He shut to his
door — not to keep from being surprised on his knees, but to bar out any
interruption.

Christian boldacss in him was not natural combativeness working out
under a baptized name. It had a true and gentle temper. " Bold to
tike up, firm to sustain the consecrated cross." He was embarrassed in
the recitation-room before a professor, and yet flinched not from preach-
ing before the President and faculty ! How often have I admired the
manner with which, while a " Fresh," he would throw those symbols of
tiio Methodist preacher, saddle-bags, over his arm and walk across the
Campus, on a Saturday — going out to one of his appointments in the
country. And St. James's, Easter, or Gilgal were warm next day.

More than most preachers, he put honor on the tcord. He had no
idea of its failing to accomplish that for which it was sent. He believed
it qiijk aad powerful — always. The consequence was, he was not de-

'^74 niOGEAPniCAL SKETCHES.

pendent. His estimate of the effect of a sermon or the state of feehng
in a congregation would hardly be concurred in by all others present.

My own obligations to him can not be cancelled by this imperfect tri-
bute to his memory. I was before him in college studies, but he was
before me in every thing else. He took me by the hand and led me out,
in ray first preaching efforts — made opportunities for me, prayed for me,
counselled, helped me.

The first " round" I ever made was with him, on the Prince Edward
circuit. His cheerful, pious talk beguiled the way. He champed upon
the bit to come at the congregation — the pulpit : so did he love to preach
the saving Gospel to lost men. Sprightly but not profound, he took at a
glance his view of a subject. Being willing, he was therefore always
ready to preach. Though not licensed half a dozen years at his death,
I reckon he sounded forth more sermons than many who have been
twelve years " in the regular work." When the stately tactics of war-
fare ilid not meet the case, he practised the guerrilla mode, and took
sinners as he found them. He acted on this Wesleyan prescription :

"You have nothing to do but to save souls, therefore spend and be
spent in this work ; and go always not only to those who want you, but
to those that want you most.

" Observe ! it is not your business to preach only so many times, and
to take care of this or that society ; but to save as many as you can ; to
bring as many sinners as you can to repentance, and with all your
power to build them up in that hoUnesa without which they can not see
the Lord."

On that " round," to me somewhat tentative, several incidents trans-
pired giving me an insight into my spiritual mentor. Love for him grew
upon one with knowledge of him.

One warm day we were on the road — off which, at the distance of a
quarter of a mile was a log house, wherein lay a sick woman. She had
been sick a long time. The neighbors had told us of her case and re-
quested a visit. It was very warm, and we had passed the road that
led to the house, by a hundred yards or so, before observing it The
lane was narrow : t, too prone to neglect duty, suggested that we could
call the next time — the place was back — the sun hot, and as it was a
chronic case a future visit would be in time. To this bad plea he seemed
for a moment to yield. Then suddenly reined up " John" under a shade
tree — "Bro. Mc, how would our Saviour do in such a case ? "

I staid by the buggy while he made a visit — a long one, to the poor
sick woman. The weather was cool, compared to the agony I endured,
self-condemned and repenting, a.nd suffering the unanswerable rebuke
of a heavenly example. I made resolutions then about visiting the sick,
which I have had abundance of opportunity since for keeping, and
which, I trust, I have kept.

By and by Blanton came back, his countenance shone like Moses'.
He had had a happy time, and others were happy. His face was happy
and I knew his heart must be. I may add, the woman was dead when
next we came round.

Li the pestilential seasons that fall upon this city, I am stimulatea m
the oflQce of visiting the sick, by the remembrance of that occasion.
There is a reward peculiar and great, and prom])tncss is part of the duty.
The sick have claims to-day which you niny not be able to pay to-mor-
row, for thev mav be ihail.

HON. AND KEV. JOHN M. TAYLOK. 275

Talk of mysterious providences ! These are mysteries — The death
of a young preacher, such as W. L. Blantoti was, when the Lord's harvest
call for laborers. But He is good and wise.

Of Crowder, Dibrell, and Penn, and such like, one thinks thus : Old
soldiers, true and worn, they have been promoted in the regular way.
They have gone up. But Blanton was breveted !

H. N. McTyeibe.

[From the New- Orleans Christian Advocate.^
Hon. and Rev, John M. Taylor.

ViCKSBURGn, Miss.y March 30, 1856.

He died at his residence in Madison parish, La., on the 28th February,
after a protracted sickness and great suffering, which was borne with
characteristic fortitude and submission. Thus, another of earth's noble-
men, and one of the truest friends and ablest supporters of Christianity,
has gone from amongst us. Death has been strangely busy of late in
taking down the pillars of society, and removing the great props of
morality, conservation, and religion. Among many who have been re-
cently called to pass the "Dark River," few, if any, wiUbe more missed
than the excellent Christian gentleman whose death we record. IIo
was born in Orange county, Va., June 28, 1788. He was a near rela-
tion of Gen. Zachary Taylor, and they were both born on adjoining plan-
tations.

Judge Taylor was a man of mark. His strong mind and active intel-
lect were strikingly exhibited very early in life by the ease with which
he mastered his studies. When about nineteen years of age, he com-
menced the study of' law in Staunton, Va., where he continued for two
years, at which time he was admitted to the bar, and soon after removed
to Columbia, Tenn., where he commenced the practice of his profession.

In March, 1811, he married Miss Anna Foote, eldest daughter of Wil-
liam Foote, Esq., of- Fauquier county, Va. Our age has produced few
such women. She was possessed of a noble intellect, and manners the
most refined and attractive. She was an ornament to her sex. Her
society was courted in every circle of refinement, and her exalted piety,
serene dignity and devotion to the duties of her several relations won,
the homage of ardent affection. She lived and died a model Christian,
wife and mother.

Judge Taylor remained but a few years at Columbia. After his
marriage, he settled in Huntsville, Ala., (then Mississippi territory,)
where an unusually intelligent population was settling, and where he
had not lived long before he took his stand in the front rank of the able
bar then residing and practising in that section of country. He was
a member of the Convention which formed the Constitution of the
State of Alabama. At about the age of thirty-one years he was ele-
vated to the bench of the Circuit Court by the Legislature, which office
he filled with distinguished ability. A few years afterwards he was
elected by the Legislature to fill the office of the Supreme Bench, which
olfice he held as long as he remained in the State; and no Judge occu-
pied the same responsible position who has discharged its duties with

276 UIOGKAPUICAL SKETCHES.

greator fidelity, zeal, and general satisfaction. Ilis resignation of the
office was received with great reluctance, but his fixed purpose of re-
moving to Mississippi led him to take the step. He removed to Missis-
sippi and settled in Vicksburg in 1832, and devoted his attention to
planting, and the practice of the law. No gentleman ever entered a
community under more favorable auspices, or was more cordially re-
ceived by an intelligent and appreciative people. Himself and femily
were deemed an acquisition and an ornament to the place, and their es-
teem grew with increasing years.

Before 1844, he had nearly relinquished the practice of his profbssion,
and in that year purchased a plantation in, and removed to Chicot
county, Arkansas, where, in 1847, he had the misfortune to lose his
estimable wife. He removed to Madison parish in 1850, and was mar-
ried in 1851 to Miss Caroline E. Thurman, who stiU survives him.

In February last he closed his mortal career, and calmly sleeps the
sleep of a holy death.

At the age of thirty-three years he renounced a skeptical scheme of
reasoning in which he had fortified himself against the claims of Christ-
ianity, and taking the Bible as the only guide worthy of rational and
accountable creatures, soon found himself rejoicing in the true spirit of
the Gospel, and counted it his chief joy through life to find his most in-
timate associates among the disciples of Christ. Soon after he had
united with the Church, he felt it his duty to preach the Gospel ; and
whilst his existing responsibilities would not allow him to give himself
wholly to the work of the ministry, he devoted so much time to the
duties of the pulpit, that for many years there were few more effective
or useful ministers in the country. His name would secure a crowded
audience at almost any time or place, and those who heard him seldom
failed to be greatly instructed and substantially improved by his dis-
courses. He was an able minister of the New Testament. His mind
was comprehensive, logical, acute ; his utterance ready and fluent ; his
manner at once dignified and persuasive. He was in earnest. He did
not preach merely to fill up an idle hour, but because he loved the Gos-
pel and wanted all men to understand it and enjoy its glorious bounties.
Hence his countenance glowed with a divine philanthropy, his eye
moistened, his words took fire, and the hearts of his hefirers swayed to
and fro under the power of his peculiar eloquence. There were very
few such preachers.

As a Christian, his private life was marked for its devotion, zeal,
prayerfulness and conscientious discharge of every duty — as much so
as that of any person we have ever known. He was not merely a good
husband and a kind father, in the common-place usage of those terms,
l)ut he stood in his fjunily circle as a patriarch, saying: "As forme and
my house, we will serve the Lord." He loved the souls of his family,
and while, with commendable diligence, he toiled to furnish them those
things essential to this life, he did not neglect to instill into their minds
the great lessons of life and immortality through Jesus Christ.

Judge Taylor was a warm advocate of his political views, but he
was as conscientious as he was ardent ; and before he came to this State
the fairest field and most flattering prospects were opened before him
for a successful career as a statesman ; and frequently was he urged to
accept nominations for the highest honors the people can bestow ; but

UON. AND UEV. JOUN M. TAYLOK. 271

his peculiar views of what he deemed his duty in another sphere led
him to decline the offers of his devoted political friends.

As a citizen and neighbor, it might be truly said of him : " None
knew him but to love him." Not that we would say all loved him —
he was too noble too incorruptible, pure, and philanthropic — he was too
much a man of God — a man of daily prayer, a Christian indeed, for
many people truly to Icnoio. He mingled with hundreds and thousands
who were struck with his dignified, refined, and manly bearing — who
were impressed with the stamp of superior intelligence on his brow —
who felt awed by his stern and lofty integrity, his transparent truth-
fulness and lofty pride of character. But they did not all know him.
Only those who cherished kindred views and sentiments could fully ap-
preciate and ardently love him. Those who revelled in " lasciviousness
and excess of wine," thought it strange that the Christian gentleman
did not " run with them to the same excess of riot; speaking evil of
them," in St. Peter's day ; and their successors to these distinguished
characteristics are as true to their practices as is the needle to the pole.
The man of whom it may be said "none name him but to praise," is
not fit for the rugged, cvery-day life battles, not prepared to measure
arms with the giant forces of resistance with which all true men must
meet. But no man need wish to be more honored, and have a larger
number of devoted friends. And, take him aU in all, it will probably
never fall to the lot of many, if of any, who enjoyed his acquaintance,
" to meet his like again."

One who stood by him in the great hour when soul and body were
shaking hands, and after a fellowship of nearly seventy years, were
now parting for their respective abodes — dust to dust, and the spirit to
God who gave it — says of him: " He died in the manner that his noble
life gave promise of. For months before his death the great theme of
his conversation was the merits of the atonement, and his devotions
were as unremitting as his consolations in believing were remarkable.
He fi-equently exhorted us all on the subject of religion. We never
saw him weep but once during all his illness, and those were tears of
joy and not'of grief.'

A short time previous to his death he exclaimed: "Jesus! oh! how
sweet the name ! How sweet to think we have such a friend to lean
upon." And as he thus spoke the tears gushed from his eyes; and as
those eyes were uplifted in sweet contemplation, it was quite evident
that his spirit was even then almost at the pearly gates of heaven. His
death was remarkably easy ; his life went out like a candle ; and it was
so calm,

" "We thought him dying when ho slept,
And sleeping when ho died."

The Methodist Episcopal Church became the church of his choice,
after a thorough investigation of her usages and doctrines ; and, though
drawn by powerful influences to a form of worship more ceremonial
and attractive, yet he found what he had need of most, a spiritual peo-
ple adhering to primitive Christianity, with all the characteristics of
the true Church of Christ. After nearly forty years' study, observa-
tion, and experience, lie rejoiced that his judgment and heart approved
his early decision. Jlis family and uncounted niunbcr of friends, will

278 niOGRAPUICAL SKinCUKS.

hold his memory dear and sacred as long as life shall last. May it be
their happiness and ours to meet him above, and rise with him in the
resurrection of the just. C. K. Marshall.

[From tlie Home Circled]
The Rev. Hezekiah G. Leigh, D.D,

Dear Bkother Hcston : The October number of your Magazine,
which has just come to hand, is embellished with a portrait of the late
Rev. Dr. Leigh, of North-Carolina. If I had known in time that the
portrait was to be inserted, I should have furnished you with a notice
of the original. I am engaged upon a memorial of our brother for
another publication, and have time to do no more than send you a copy
of the inscription upon his cenotaph, which was made for me by one
of the students at Randolph Macon College, on the occasion of my visit
to that institution this week. Dr. Leigh was great as an orator. I
have heard Summerfield, Bascom, Maffitt, Breckenridge, Hawks, Be-
thune, Cookman, and Henry Clay and his compeers — and I have never
heard a man who seemed to me to approach Hezekiah Gilbert Leigh as a
natural orator. He did comparatively little to cultivate his great powers,
else he had shone with surpassing splendor. I never saw him try to
produce an effect, but the magnetic power of his genius seemed natu-
rally to shoot itself into his audience whenever he was fired with the
themes of the Gospel. This power was wondrous, and woudrously un-
preciated by its possessor.

In the chapel of Randolph Macon College, Virginia, inserted in the
wall on the right of the rostrum, is a marble cenotaph, bearing the fol-
lowing inscription ;

SACRED

TO THE MEMORY OP

REV. HEZEKIAH G. LEIGH, D.D.

niS WAS BOKN IN PERQUIMANS CO., W. C, NOV. 23, 1793,

PKOFBSSKD CONVERSION IN 1817,

JOINED THE VIEGINIA CONFERENCE IN 181S.

In the division of the Conference in 1836, he became a member of
the North-Carolina Conference. He died in Mecklenburg county, Vir-
ginia, September 18, 1853, aged fifty-eight years. He was elected to
every General Conference from 1824 to the time of his death ; was a
member of the Louisville Convention, and a trustee of R. M. College.
He devoted the powers of his great mind to the service of the Church
for thirty-five years, and was abundant in labors and success. He was
the advocate of every measure to improve the literary and religious
character of the Church. A lover of learning, he founded R. M. Col-
lege ; pure in character, profound in the knowledge of divine truths,
eloquent as a minister, fervent in zeal, eminent in usefulness, he lived
beloved by the good, and died lamented by his brethren.

MEMOIR OF "WILEY WARWICK. 279

This tablet has been erected to his memory by his brethren of the

NORTH-CAROLINA CONFERENCE

OF THE

METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH, SOUTH.

The last words on the tablet remind me that it was Dr. Leigh, if I
have been rightly informed, who, in the Louisville Convention, proposed
the name now borne by our Southern Church. Charles F. Deems.

[From the S. 0. Advocate.}

ilEMOiR OP Wiley Warwick.

Wiley Warwick was born in Sussex Co., Ya., March 17th, A.D. 1771.
He was a moral though irreligious youth. He states, in his journal,
that " in his seventeenth year he was enlightened and had many draw-
ings of the Father," But he returned again to folly ; and so lived
until his twenty-sixth year. In his twenty -first year he was married
to a young lady, who was a pious member of the M. E. Church. By
this happy union he was brought under Methodistic influence. It was
in the month of August, 179(>,. that he was powerfully converted to God,
in Anson Co., N. C, where he then resided. He immediately joined
the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which his wife had been for many
years a member. And soon afterwards he was licensed to exhort. He
was licensed to preach in November, 1799. He labored efficiently as a
local preacher until the year 1804, when, by the persuasions of Bishop
Asbmy and a number of travelling ministers, he joined the itinerancy.
It was during the time that he attended a camp-meeting some sixteen
miles from his residence. It was the first camp-meeting that was ever
held in that section of country. It was held by the Methodists and
Presbyterians ; and was under the care of Rev. Dr. Brown, afterwards
President of Franldin College — who died in Fort Gains, Ga., in the year
1842, one of the most triumphant deaths on record. Father Warwick
walked the entire distance, and arrived on the encampment on Friday
evening, during the three o'clock sermon. Dr. Brown preached. Father
Warwick had intended to conceal his character as a preacher of' the
Gospel. But on arriving on the encampment he walked into the altar
and seated himself under or just in front of the stand. When Dr.
Brown had finished, he invited any person to exhort, who had a word
for the people. Father Warwick rose from his seat, under the inspira-
tion of the Holy Ghost, and commenced exhorting the people. The
mighty power of God came down upon him and upon the congregation.
The people began to fall in all directions, and to cry aloud for mercy.
The influence spread far and wide. Dming the exhortation a great rain
fell, which deluged the earth. But of this the exhortcr was unconscious
until he had finished his exhortations. Multitudes of people were lying
in an apparently insensible state, regardless of the mighty waters ; who
had to be cared for by their friends. From this house, said Father
Warwick, until Monday, eight o'clock, there were no ten minutes that the
shouts of the redeemed, or tiie groans of the penitents, or the loud pray-

280 lilOGRAPlIICAL SKETCUES.

crs of the people of God, were not heard. It was a time of the mighty
power of God. It was at this camp-meeting, that the soul of Father
Warwick caught that missionary fire which burned so long and so
brightly. This statement of Father Warwick is corroborated by at
least one living witness.

He joined the South-Carolina Conference, in Augusta, Ga., January
1, 1804, and was appointed to the Anson circuit, with William Avant,
to change with Thomas Shaw and M. Boier on the Little Pee Dee cir-
cuit, in six months. In his journal he states that he travelled the little
Pee Dee circuit, but makes no allusion to Anson. During the first thir-
teen years of his itinerancy he travelled as follows : Little Pee Dee, An-
son, Bladen, Santee, Great Pee Dee, Rocky River, Wateree two years,
Santee two years, Black River, Inoree two years. At the end of his
second year on the Inoree circuit, Father Warwick located 1817 ; being
broken down in health, and unwilling to become burdensome to the
Church. His last year on the Inoree circuit was rather nominal, ho
being a supernumerary. During these twelve years of his itinerancy he
travelled 42,925 miles and preached 3682 sermons, besides exhortations,
prayer-meedngs, night appointments, and camp-meeting labors.

He remained local until 1821, when he was employed by Bishop
George to supply the Union circuit, South-Carolina Conference. At the
ensuing annual conference which sat again in Augusta, he joined the
itinerancy again. His travels were as follows : Black Mountain, Grove
(Carnesville,) two years, Gwinnett, (Laurenceville,) Broad River, (Elber-
ton,) Habersham, (Clarkesville,) Gwinnitte Grove, Habersham.

While at Conference in Milledgeville, in January, 1826, he got a pine
splinter stuck into the muscle of his thigh, which gave him great pain.
He called on Dr. Banks, a celebrated surgeon, to have it extracted. But
the Doctor advised him to let it alone, as its extraction would be attended
with great danger. He travelled for the remaining four years in great
pain, in consequence. He had a pad fixed on his saddle so as to relieve
his thigh from the pressure of the saddle. It finally healed up ; and he
took it with him into his grave.

In the year 1822 he moved his family to Habersham county, Ga.
During the journey he got his little finger dreadfully mashed, which
gave him great pain. He eventually had it amputated. In consequence
of his suiFerings he lost some two rounds of appointments. At the An-
nual Conference the P. E. complained that he had neglected his work.
Father AYarwick simply rose fi-om his seat, drew forth his inflamed and
mutilated hand and exhibited it to the Conference. It was enough. Of
this accident the P. E. had not been informed.

While travelling on the Bladen circuit, in the year 1806, he was ex-
ceedingly annoyed by a Baptist, by the name of Lindsey. This man
wasabigoted sectarian and a great enemy to Methodist " circuit-riders."
He used all his talents and influence against the Methodist preacher.
As the Methodist preacher was passing through a low land or swamp
near nightfall, he discovered a pair of saddle-bags in the mud and water
by the road-side. He hooked them up with the crooked end of his
whip ; and when he had got to the higher ground, he dismounted and
examined them. On them he saw the name of Rev. Mr. Lindsej'. And
on examining their contents, the first article which he drew out was
a junk-bottle, well filled with liquor. At the next house, being a Bap-

MEMOIR OP WILEY WAUWICK. 2^1

tist house, he called for lodgings ; but was told that " Methodist circuit-
riders" could not stay there. He then delivered up the parson's saddle-
bags and their valuable contents, requesting the landlady to notify
Parson Lindsey that they were safe. This pi'oduced a change of senti-
ment ; and it was agreed that he might stay. The landlady informed
him that Brother Lindsey had passed by a store near there that day, and
had taken a little too much liquor on a fasting stomach, and had lost
his saddle-bags ; but she hoped it would not get out upon him. The
Methodist preacher kept the secret, as long as he remained in the coun-
try. And the consequence was, that Parson Lindsey became a good
friend of the Methodist preacher ; and peace was restored to the
churches. The rides on this circuit were long. On one stretch there
was no house, and the preacher had to sleep in the woods, supperless,
with, the earth for a bed, his saddle for a pillow, and the heavens for a
covering. But his soul was fed with bread from heaven ; and the next
morning he went on his way rejoicing.

During the thirty years of Father Warwick's efficiency as a travelling
preacher, he travelled 6G,849 miles on his regular work ; and preached
5938 sermons, besides exhortations, night-meetings, and camp-meeting
labors. And for all this he received only 6392 dollars all told ; being
a little over 110 dollars per year. And yet, with this and a prudent,
economizing wife, he raised a family of live children in respectability,
and gave them a moderate English education.

At the Conference held in the city of Macon, at the close of the year
1830 — the first Georgia Annual Conference — Father Warwick, not being
able to travel, wrote to Conference requesting a superannuated relation,
which was granted ; and which relation he continued to sustain until
the end of his long pilgrimage.

On the 24:th November, 1843, Father Warwick lost the wife of his
youth and the sharer of the toils and hardships of his itinerancy. After
living in widowed loneliness for a few years, he married again in his
seventy-third year, a worthy widow lady near his own age, who still
survives him. It was thought by some of the friends and brethren,
that a marriage at so advanced an age was unadvised. But though
as a general rule such matches should be discountenanced, in the
case of Father Warwick it proved a great blessing. He found in her
a companion suited to his years. And her presence, sympathy, and
kind attention greatly alleviated the pains of his latter years. And, in
his last sickness, she was ever by his bedside, anticipating aU his
wants. Her attentive ear caught his last dying whispers.

The last few years of the life of Father "Warwick were spent in the
town of Dahlonega, in a state of decrepitude. His affliction was of such
a character as to cause intense suifering. He may truly be said to be
one of those " which came out of great tribulation." The paroxysms
of his disease became more frequent and more intense, until even mor-
phine was no longer of any avail. During their continuance his ago-
nizing shrieks, which could be heard for a considerable distance, were
most heart-rending. But during all his luiheard-of sulTerings, not one
murmur ever escaped his lips. If ever a soul was made perfect througli
sufferings. Father Warwick was of the number. I suppose that no per-
son ever did suffer more from the natural course of di.sease than he.
And yet I have never seen one more lamb-like. He " vv;utcd his ap-

282 BIOaRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

pointed time, until his change came." Yet, like Paul, his desire was
that he might be permitted " to depart and to be with Christ." With
the exception of a very brief period, he retained his mental faculties
until the last. And thus he was enabled again and again to testify to
his family and friends his faith in God, and the luiclouded vision of the
smiling face of his Heavenly Father.

He died May 7th last, in the eighty-sixth year of his natural life ; in
the sixtieth year of his spiritual life ; in the fifty-seventh year of his
ministry ; and in the fifty-third year of his itinerancy.

G. Bright.

[From the North- Carolina Advocate.]
Rev. James Patterson.

It was our privilege, last week, to meet with this " father in Israel"
at Olin, in Iredell county. He is the oldest member of the North-Caro-
lina Conference ; and perhaps the oldest member of any annual Confer-
ence in the Southern Church. He has been for a number of years on
the superannuated list, and has resided upon his farm in the neighbor-
hood of OUn. He was a giant in his day, and still retains his vigor of
mind in a remarkable degree for one of his years. In reply to a ques-
tion, he gave the following memorandum, wi-itten in a strong, clear
hand, which condenses, in few words, the history of a long and useful
life:

" I began to travel as an itinerant p"reacher, by the direction of Reu-
ben Ellis, (called Elder at that time,) on the sixteenth day of Noevmber,
1793, and continued thus to travel until the beginning of the year 1795,
at which time I was admitted on trial, in the twentieth year of my age, at
Conference held in Charleston, South-Carolina ; was ordained deacon
the eighth of January, 1797, and ordained elder on the fourth day of
January, 1799; was about fifteen years old when I joined the Methodist
Church, it being then called the Methodist Church. I was born the
23d day of January, 1773, near Orangeburg, South-Carolina.

" James Patterson."

The man who entered the travelling ministry in 1793, was an hon-
ored instrument in the great revivals which have built up Methodism in
North-Carolina, and under whom such men as Hezekiah G. Leigh were
brought into the itinerancy, must possess information of deep interest to
the whole Church. Father Patterson has promised to prepare for the
readers of the Advocate some reminiscences of his ministerial career —
some incidents of the remarkable men who were his cotemporaries, and
of the revivals in which he was an agent.

He has won the respect and veneration of all who know him, and will
receive the prayers of a generation which rises up to call him blessed.

[From the N. 0. Advocate.']

The Rev. James M. "Wells,

Late of the Alabama Conference.

There is a class of ministers not properly appreciated by those who
write contemporaneous history. Their names, pave in Conference min-

REV. JAAIES M. WELL8. 28.'{

utcs or lists of appointments, very rarely find a place in the public prints.
They live laborious, useful, godly lives. They do the hard work of tlie
ministry. They preach the Gospel to the poor. They build up the
waste places, gather congregations, organize Sabbath-schools, convert
souls, erect churches in out-of-the-way corners. They preach the pure,
plain, simple word of God, making their way felt and known among
conunon people. They go anywhere — live on any sort of salary, re-
joice in God that souls are won to Christ. They die gloriously. "Let
my last end be like his." And then, save in the hearts of those to
whom they were the ministers of salvation, and a few of their ministcr-
tering brethren who estimate them truly, tltey are forgotten. Yet their
record is on high. Their names are in the book of life.

Among these we place the late James M. Wells. He had few advan-
tages in early life ; an imperfect knowledge of English was the sum of
his accomplishments in the way of education. Young in years, with
little knowledge of men or books, he entered upon the work of his life
with deep feeling of insufficiency. With a sound mind, a strong con-
stitution and vigor of body that seemed utterly unconscious of fatigue,
a burning zeal that kept all aglow by the continued unction of the Holy
One, he went to work — work to him, not by a mere figure of speech,
but actual, to le done.

Few men were more successful. — Luke's description of Barnabas
seems written for him, so exactly does it portray him. " He M'as a good
man, full of the Holy Ghost and of faith, and much people was added
unto the Lord." There was a revival in every work he filled, be it mis-
sion, circuit, or station. He prayed for it — he preached for it— he in-
fused his own strong faith into the hearts of his people. God answered
— the work prospered — and in these times of refreshing he was ever
foremost, never sparing himself — in the pulpit, in the prayer-meeting, in
the family. In the altar, the last lingering penitent, no matter how
lowly, at the latest hour of the night, might feel assured Brother Wells
would never desert him. There he was, praying with earnest, heart-felt
importunity, directing by word of exhortation, cheering with a song,
R3nnpathizing with' him in his distress,, and rejoicing with him when he
had found peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. He was
truly untiring. When, wearied to exhaustion by continued labors,
others retired to rest, Wells was on hand, fresh seemingly as ever.
Neither flesh nor spirit flagged. Thus for some twelve years. Then
the wear and tear of continued, unceasing toil began to tell. Still, how-
ever, though a constant sufferer, able to accomplish an amount of labor
rarely undergone by the strong and healthy.

Htf was veiy stuchous, anxious to learn, and willing to be taught. He
made the ministry his sole business, gave himself wholly to it. He
thought of it always labored to make every thing .subserve its accom-
plishment. His books (he had some two hundred well-selected vol-
umes) were studied slowly and carefully, well marked for reference.
His sermons sketched, sometimes of later years written out, not to be
read, but preached, were baptized with prayer, so that if the Sermoi^
was a poor one, it rarely foiled to make a good religious impression.

He was improving constantly as a preacher. In the last two years
he had made very sensible progress in his studies; having more leisure,
he had improved it dili;j,on(ly and prnfitabh''. He was just beginning

284 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.

to know liow to study, a diflBcult thing to learn when there has been no
early training. He had corrected many errors in pronunciation and
delivery, and put more system into his sermons and public addresses.
Energetic and persevering, he would have fitted himself for more ex-
tended usefulness had he been spared longer. He was a thorough Me-
thodist. He loved the Church of his choice as he did the mother who
bore him. He studied her doctrines and usages. He had realized in
his own experience the high grade of Christian attainment which her
standards hold forth. And in his defenses and explanations of hor
polity on points called in question by other denomination;?, after a
fashion peculiarly his own he was often singularly happy and suc-
cessful.

A strong pervading sense of duty was ever present with him. What
ought I to do ? was his question. Once decided, there was no faltering.
This gave a manliness of tone and straightforward directness of de-
livery which sometimes assumed in the eyes of those who did not know
him well, the appearance of forwardness — a desire to exhibit himself.
Modest he was, but never to the sacrifice of principle or compromise
of duty.

He wore well as a friend and as a preacher. He was best beloved
and best appreciated where best known. No slight praise this. How
few deserve it? In the circle in which he moved, (and he spent the
largest part of his itinerant life in the bounds of the Tuscaloosa Dis-
trict,) no man possessed more fully the confidence of those who knew
him. The religious of every name loved him. The irreligious re-
spected him, with full faith in his integrity and piety. They iclieced
in him.

He died as he lived, "in the faith." Able to speak but little, that
little was to the purpose, expressing unshaken confidence in Cod.

But all this of a man we never heard of! That's the very reason I
write. I want you to hear of him, that henceforth you may value as
they deserve those like him. And I am happy to believe there arc
many among us of the same character.

But what sort of a preacher was he ? "Was he really an eloquent
orator? Well, I am afraid not, in the ordinary sense of the expression.
The newspapers never puffed him. He never made a sensation by his
coming. Crowds did not jostle each other to hear him. Literary in-
stitutions never D.D.'d him. Neither circuit nor station ever sent del-
egates to the Bishop at conference to secure liim. Boards of stewards
never thought it worth while to make arrangements as to salary with
him in advance of his appointment. In fact, I never heard of his prcs.s-
ing his own claims to a good place. His sermons were announced
beforehand neither from piilpit nor press. Truth to tell, all these signs
were wanting. He was neither much praised, or flattered, or abused.
He belonged to a different class. When men spoke of him, they styled
him an acceptable preacher. ^'■Acceptable" that's the very word.
When he had been on a work for one year, the people wanted him
again. The sinner converted under his ministry, the suffering, the
sick, the sorrowing, whom he had comforted, with whom he had prayed
and sympathized, longed for his return. They said truly: "Tarry
with us, for we have learned by experience that the Lord hath blessed
us for tliy sake."

KEV. GEORGE ElilN. '285

He was once on a negro mission. The man of all work — he was the
very man for this difficult work. Here his health failed. Could you
have heard, as I did, how feelingly and earnestly the simple-hearted
darkies prayed the Lord to bless Brother Wells, to restore him to health,
and send them their dear preacher next year again, you would have
felt that there was something better than feme or flattery, and that was
the portion of our acceptable preacher, a place in the hearts of his peo-
ple. And this was all well bestowed ; he deserved it, was worthy of
it. He had them on his heart. How many have been first startled,
and then won to interest and sympathy, as Wells, in the congregation
in some wealthy church, lifted up his voice in earnest pleading prayer
to God to remember the poor negro on the plantation, and bring him
from his ignorance and darkness to the light of the blessed Gospel.

But to return. Was he eloquent ? In fact, he was not even fluent.
But if eloquence be the power of so expressing emotion as to excite
similar emotions in others, then J. M. Wells was eloquent. In earnest,
thoroughly so, honest altogether, sincere in the profound conviction
that he was called of God to preach the Gospel — deeply, solemnly im-
pressed with the truth and weighty import of his message, his heart
warmed as he fiUed with his subject — his stammering hesitation for a
word or expression left him — his words flowed fi-ee and in power, in
spite of the want of compactness in logic and the absence of rhetorical
exactitude in expression.

The unction was there, and this not occasionally at rare intervals, but
ordinarily in his daily ministrations. Those who heard him were im-
pressed not with the eloquence of the man, but the solemnity and
reality of the truth preached. The true mark of eloquence, result, im-
pression, fi-uit, followed. Believers were edified, sinners converted, good
done.

In the great day when rewards are distributed, the verdict of men
will be often reversed. Many with large reputation, sought after,
courted, caressed by the Church, will have fewer stars in their crowns
of rejoicing than our " unTcnown to fame^ " accepta'bh^'' Methodist
preacher, James M. Wells.

I have been acquainted with him for ten years, known him intimately
for four ; been with him in sickness and in health ; in prosperity
and in deep affliction ; in public and in private fi'ee intercourse, such as
subsists among Methodist preachers, in that full, unreserved communion
of soul, outspoken and overflowingly open, where hearts touch and
thoughts are unveiled, and in this full knowledge, I record this my trib-
ute to the memory and worth (in which I know many join me) of one,
who, gone forth from our ranks to the better company above, leaves few
purer or nobler spirits behind him. T. J. Kogek.

Mobile, August 5.

[From the St. Louis Advocate, August, 28.]

Rev. George Ekin.

" Friend after friend departs ;
Who has not lost a friend?
There is no uaion hero of hearts,
That finds not liere an end."

286 BTOGEAPIIICAL SKETCHES.

How keenly we felt the force of the truth of the above, when, on open-
ing a Virginia paper last week, we saw an announcement of the death
of the Rev. George Ekin, of the Holston Annual Conference. It was
said he died suddenly at Abingdon, Va., wc suppose at the house of his
grandson, G. E. Neff, Esq.

Rev. George Ekin was our friend^ and in this we mean all we say. Our
friend. In 1820 he travelled on what was then called " Carter's Valley
Circuit ;" and our father's house was one of his regular preaching places.
Then commenced our acquaintance with him. We were then a small
boy, but large enough to receive instructions from him, which we have
never forgotten. In 1823, while yet a boy, we were received by him to
membershii) in the M. E. Church. Several years passed away, we were
licensed to preach and admitted into the travelling connection in the
same class with his only son, George Ekin Jr. The second year of our
ministry was spent on a circuit of which he had charge. That year his
son died, and to some extent we were allowed to supply his place in the
father's affections. From that period to the time of our leaving that
country, we enjoyed the firm friendship and confidence of that good
man. He had his faults, but he had also his sterhng virtues, and for
these we loved and honored him. He was eccentric, but he was useful,
and as a minister remarkably successful. Perhaps, under no one man's
ministry, who ever labored in Eastern Tennessee and Western Virginia,
were there ever as many souls truly converted to God and added to the
Church, as under his. He had enemies, but he had also hosts of true
and fiist friends. Not highly educated nor extensively read, the secret
of his success lay in his love for souls and zeal for God. He was a man
of much prayer, and "mighty in the Scriptures." With him religion
was a reality, and the preaching of the Gospel a work for eternity.

Born and raised in the south of Ireland, he retained many of the strik-
ing peculiarities of his nation, not the least of which was warm-hearted-
ness.

Soon after reaching this country he entered the itinerancy, and except
when physically disabled he faithfully attended to the duties and per-
formed the work of a Methodist travelling preacher until the day of his
death. A more punctual, devoted, and faithful man we have rarely ever
known, or one who more heartily believed or was more sincerely at-
tached to ]\Iethodist doctrine, discipline, and usage.

Brother Ekin had been a member of the Methodist Church for more
than sixty-five years, forty-five of which were spent as a travelling
preacher.

\F)-om the Texas Advocate, August 30.]
Rev. Henry Fullingim.

Died, on the 21st of April last, of bronchitis, the Rev. Henry Fullin-
gim of Lamar county, Texas.

Brother Fullingim suffered much bodily affliction for nearly two years
before his death. His disease appears to have originated in hard preach-
ing and exposure. When told during the time of his illness, those were
the principal causes of his sickness, he seemed not to repine, but was
heard to say, that he had tried to do God's will; and now he was willing
to suffer his will also.

REV. IIENKY i'ULLINGIM. 287

He gave the writer a short history of his life, which he desired should
be published after his death, that his friends and relations in distant
countries might know something of his peregrinations through the sor-
rows of earth, and the final end of his mortal career.

"I was born in the State of North-Carolina, November 18th, 1788.
My father remained there until I was eleven years of age — then remov-
ing to the State of Georgia, settled in the Cherokee Nation, where I re-
ceived a limited education. In 1812, I was called out against the Indians
where, amidst the volleys of guns, and groans of the wounded, I learned
something of the rude art of war. I married in 181G, and on the 17th
of September, 1817, made a profession of religion and joined the M. E.
Church, under whose watchful care I have been ever since. I have
never been of much advantage to the Church — but the Church has been
of much advantage to me. I served as class-leader for several years,
then as licensed exhorter, a few years. I moved to Benton county, Ala-
bama, where I received license to preach, and at the end of my term of
probation, was ordained deacon by Bishop Paine. Emigrated to Texas
in 1850, and settled in Lamar county, remained in the local ranks two
years ; was then recommended by the Paris Quarterly Meeting Confer-
ence to East-Texas Conference : where I was admitted ; and received
an appointment to the Boston Circuit — at the close of the year, was or-
dained elder by Bishop Paine, and reappointed to the Boston Circuit —
at the close of my second year, I was elected a member of Conference,
and appointed to the Sulphur Fork Mission, during which year I saw
great displays of God's wonder-working power in the salvation of souls.
I finished my work — went to Tyler Conference, and being worn out
fi'om excess of labor and exposure, received a superannuate relation in
which I still remain."

Brother FuUingim is no more among us — he has exchanged the ills and
disappointments of earth for a home in heaven ; his Bible and hymn-
book for a crown in that better world the Christian's more genial clime.
Although Brother FuUingim passed through a series of almost sixty-eight
years, he by no moans out-lived his reputation; he was one of those
plain, positive, and - uncompromising Christians, and those who knew
him longest, were best calculated to appreciate his moral worth. Not-
withstanding his education was limited, he was a man of excellent sense,
and of brilliant thought ; but more than this, he seemed to be strictly
pious, and spiritually devoted to the work of the ministry. Religion
was his theme, and Christ the object and glory of his faith and practice.

Doubtless the itinerant brethren of East-Texas Conference feel a deep
solicitude for the Church, which has lost an ornament ; and the fomiiy
of our brother who have lost a devoted husband and an affectionate
father and are left to mourn their irreparable loss. May the Lord bless
both the itinerant and domestic charges of our brother — make them
seals to his ministry, and stars to his crown in the glory world !

William H. Newland.
Paris, Texas, July Uh, 1856.

288 BIOGRAPHICAL SKEl'CIIES.

[Fro7n the Memphis Advocate, Sept. 25.] ''

Rev. C. W. Rozell.

It is with a sad heart that we announce to the readers of the AdvO'
cate the death of Rev. C. W. Rozell, of the Memphis Conference. He
breathed his last on the 28th of -August, at his father-in-law's, Col.
John B. Fants, near Holly Springs, Miss. He was born in Henderson
county, Tenn., 11th October, 1820. He was early dedicated to the
Lord in holy baptism, for which he blessed and thanked his mother upon
his dying-bed. In 1838, while a student of Lagrange College, he was
most powerfully converted to God, while as an humble penitent he was
receiving instruction from Bishop Paine. He has often been heard to
say that he would as soon doubt his own existence as his conversion at
that time. After his first marriage he moved to Tallahatchie county.
Miss. ; in 1840 he was called upon to give up his wife and two interest-
ing children. Feeling that he was called to the work of the ministry,
he made application to the Church, and in 1846 he was licensed to
preach by Brother T. L. Boswell. He removed in 1847 to Coahoma
county, Miss., where he labored very efficiently as a local preacher. In
the fall of 1850, he was united in marriage to Ann E. Fant. In the fall
of 1854 he was admitted on trial into the Memphis Conference, and was
appointed to the Byhalia circuit, now a part of the Holly Springs cir-
cuit, where he labored with great acceptability and usefulness. In this
field of labor he won to himself many warm friends. At our last Con-
ference he was appointed by Bishop Kavanaugh to the Friar's Point
circuit, where he has labored during the present conference year. A
few weeks ago he left home with his family, to visit his parents and
friends. On his way up the river he fell sick, and came to his father's,
near this city, (who is since dead,) where he remained some two weeks,
during which time we enjoyed the pleasure of visiting him. We found
him in a happy frame of mind, ready, waiting his Master's will. Being
somewhat improved, and hoping a change would be advantageous, he
was taken to his father-in-law's, in Marshall county. Miss. But soon
after his removal he began to grow worse, and it was ascertained that
he must die. He requested that his mother should be sent for, as he
wanted her present to see him die. The only regret he seemed to have
was to part with his affectionate wife and dear little children. After
commending his wife and children to God, he ardently wished and sin-
cerely prayed that his little son, Wilbur, might become a preacher of
the Gospel, and asked his friends to raise him in the fear of God. Some
two days before he died, his sister (Mrs. Botts) and brother, (Col. Y.
P. Rozell,) came to see him ; he expressed himself as glad to see them.
He said he "never before had such exalted views of heaven and divine
things ; if God spared his life he would feel better prepared to do his
duty as. a preacher than ever before." He often exclaimed : " What a
blessed calling was that of a minister of the Gospel." Then with
Christian-like submission he said : " I am confident if I live it will be
for the best — if I die it will be for the best ; whether I live or die it
will be for the best." The morning before he died, as the decisive hour
di'cw near, he exclaimed : " I am a dead man ! Dead ! did I say ? I

REV. J. M. KJiLLY A^D KEV. U. KJiENEK. 289

shall never die, but shall live in immortal bliss." When the shades of
death closed in upon him, the last words he was heard to utter were :
" Most gone— happy, happy, happy!" Thus died a faithful itinerant^
at his post of duty, covered with honor, with the shout of triumph
upon his lips. It may be truly said of Brother Rozcll, that he not only
lived well and worked well, but he died well. He was much beloved
by all who knew him. He was a useful man, a good preacher, a kind
neighbor, a lenient master, an indulgent parent, and an affectionate
companion. In the death of Brother Rozcll, the community has lost
one of its most valuable citizens, the Church one of its most liberal
supporters, and the Conference one of her most promising and useful
members. He leaves behind him a beloved wife and four little children.
We tender to them our heartfelt sympathy. J. T. C. Collins.

Memphis, Sept. 22, 1856.

[From the S. C. Advocate.']

Rev. J. M. Kelly and Rev. U. Keener.

Wc learn from the Eeraltl of Truth, of the death of two members of
the Ilolston Conference. The Rev. John Mead Kelly, P. E. of Rogers-
ville District, Ilolston Conference, died the 2d September, at his home,
in Tazewell, Tennessee. He was born October 31st, 1802, and in 1817
he embraced religion, and joined the Church. In September, 1827, he
was licensed to preach, and had been a traveling preacher twenty-five
years or more. His district was large and rugged : he did a great deal
of hard riding, and his heart was much in the work. He preached
with acceptability, zeal, and success ; frequently were his congregations
bathed in tears, or carried away with a tide of religious feelings. He
attended to his work faithfully up to the close of the third quarter.
The day on which his last meeting for the third quarter commenced, he
was taken sick. At first the case did not seem to be a dangerous one
and hopes were entertained of his recovery until within a few days of
his death. During his sickness, owing to the nature of the disease and
influence of medicine, he talked but little ; but, during all his weary
days and nights of suffering, he murmured not, that we know of, nor
did his faith falter or love grow cold. He retained his reason all the
while ; and, to the last, knew all his friends — knew what he was about,
where he was going, was ready prepared and waiting. A short time
before crossing the flood, he calmly bade adieu to all his family, white
and colored, speaking an appropriate word to each, so far as he was
able, and leaving with them the blessing of a dying servant of God.
Thus John M. Kelly, so long and favorably known among us, passed
away. He was an able and popular minister of the " New Testjiment ;"
he had won for himself a high position in the affections and confidence
of his brethren, and there was in him so much of the sweet-toned
Christian gentleman, so much kindness, so much open-hearted friend-
ship, that he shared largely in the good will of all classes. His family,
community, and the Chm-ch generally, are bereaved ; earth is poorer,
and less attractive than before ; but heaven is richer and more de-
sirable.

290 BIOGKAPUICAL SKETCHES,

Rev. Ulbich Keexer was bom in Eust-Tennessee, August 11th, 1801 ;
embraced religion, and joined the M. E. Church, as is beUeved, in his twen-
tieth year, served the Church as a class-leader one year, and was licensed
to preach Feb. 19th, 1825. He preached one year as a local preachei",
ind then joined the Holston Conference. For five years he travelled
and preached faithfully and successfully. For some fifteen years he
remained local, preaching a good deal, and struggling hard to raise and
educate his family. He was not satisfied in a local sphere, nor did his
temporal matters prosper. Hence in 1845 or 1846, he was readmitted
into the Conference. Six or seven years ago he was appointed to the
Echota Indian Mission, to preach to and teach the Cherokees. Here
he seemed perfectly at home, and did good service as long as he was
able to work. Many Indians were brought to Christ through his
preaching and teaching, and now he is enshrined in the hearts of hun-
dreds of Cherokees, never to be forgotten by them. For some three
years past he labored under a wasting disease of the lungs. The dis-
ease was so slow in its progress, that his death was not expected, till
the Sabbath evening before he died on Thursday, though he was fully
prepared to meet it. He told the family often to indulge no fears witli
regard to his future welfare — that he was going to heaven. He said to
all with whom he conversed, that his joys were not so ecstatic as many
seemed to have, but that '■'■ all loas wclV^ — that he could look on his
grave with as much composure as he did upon his bed — that death had
no terrors for him. He only requested his family not to grieve for
him ; but to meet him in heaven. He also desired his brethren in the
ministry to know how he died, be faithful, and meet him in heaven, and
on the 21st August he calmly fell asleep in Jesus, and now rests from
his labors and sufferings.

Rev. E. C. Thornton.

Greenupsburg, Ky., Oct. 28, 1850.
Dear Brother Lee : Our beloved and gifted brother, the Rev. E. C.
Thornton, is no more. It is with a sad and heavy heart that I make
the announcement of this most melancholy and painful event. The
particulars have not as yet reached me. I learn, however, that while
on a visit to his aged father in the State of Iowa, or on his return ti'ip
from there, by some means or other he was thrown under the wheels of
the cars while in motion, by which his limbs were dreadfully crushed
and mangled. An attempt at amputation, or the effects of his injuries,
or both united, proved fatal. Oh ! what a horrible death ! How inscru-
table the ways of Providence ! He occupied the first rank in our Con-
ference. In the prime of life, a man of great energy and zeal, he had
just disposed of what little earthly possessions he had, and was about
to embark, by a sort of re-dedication of himself to God, more fully in
the work of the ministry. The first of our little band that has fallen,
we mourn over him with a grief of unutterable intensity. This sad
news will carry sorrow to many hearts throughout our bounds. He
was warmly esteemed and affectionately admired wherever he was
known. Truly a brilliant light is quenched, and a faithful watchman
on our walls has fallen. A widow and seven children arc bequeathed

KEV. E. O. THORNTON. 291

to the sympathies of the Church. God of the widow and orphan, bless
and provide fbr them. In haste,

Yours in grief and sadness, S. Field.

Cattletsburg, Ky., Oct. 26, 1856.

Brother Lee: I inclose you an extract from a Wisconsin paper,
containing a notice of the death of our beloved brother, Ezra C. Thorn-
ton. Yesterday when a steamboat arrived, I went to the landing and
expected to meet him buoyant with life and health, and happy in the
embraces of the children from whom he had been absent only fifteen
days. But God had said his work was done, and had taken him to
himself. Death hath made his first call on the Western Virginia Con-
ference, South, and " though an angel's arm can't snatch us from the
grave," thank God, " legions of angels can't confine us there." My
u-ife and myself have just visited the afflicted widow and her seven liclp-
less children — the youngest a very feeble babe in the arms. Owing to
numerous detentions on the route, the body of Brother T. was compelled
to be interred before Sister T. reached Edgerton.

In this mysterious dispensation of Providence, the Conference and
the Church at large have sustained an irreparable loss. May God help
us to remember the widow and the orphan in their trial and destitution.
Your brother in Christ, Joseph Foster.

[^From the Janesville Free Press.l

" Janesville, Wis., Oct. 18, 1856.
" Yesterday morning we noticed a serious railroad accident occurring
at Fulton depot, on Wednesday evening. Since then we have heard
full particulars in regard to it. The name of the injured man is E.
Thornton, from Kentucky, presiding elder of a Methodist Conference of
that State, who was going to Madison to visit some relatives, and in
attempting to get on the cars after they had started, both legs slipped
on the rail, and was horribly mutilated. Medical assistance was imme-
diately called in and every effort made to get up suflBcient reaction ne-
cessary for amputation, but with little avail until the afternoon of next
day, when a slight reaction occurring. Dr. Palmer of this city, assisted
by brs. Head and Slocum, of Edgerton, at the urgent request of the
sufferer and a large number of sympathizing friends, and being satisfied
that it was the last resort, amputated the Umb, but he survived the
operation but a short tinvJ. He exhibited much courage and self-pos-
session, and retained his senses amid all his suffering to the last mo
ment. ' No blame is attached to those in charge of the train, and every
one connected with the road manifested much sympathy, and were un-
tiring in their efforts to make him comfortable while he survived. His
funeral will be attended to-day at one oclock P.M., at Edgerton, under
charge of the Masonic fraternity, (it being his request,) of which order
he was an active member. lie leaves a wife and seven children to mourn
his untimely fate, who are now in Indiana, but expected to be present
to pay the last tribute of respect and love to the affectionate husband
and kind fother, who has thus been suddenly called from earth to that
brighter and happier realm beyond the skies."

292 BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES,

[^From tlie South Carolina Advocate, Nov. 13.]

Death of Rev. Robert W. Spesce.

A biographical notice of this member of the Alabama Conference, in
the N. 0. Advocate, informs us that he died at the residence of his
mother in Kemper Co., Miss., on the 27th of September. He was born
in Abbeville District, S. C, in 1824. His parents were Presbyterians,
and he early joined that Church. In 1849 he and others of his family
joined the M. E. Church, and he soon joined the Alabama Conference.
Early this year, being in the Marion station, (Miss.,) his health wholly
failed him, and he went home to die — hemorrhage of the lungs being
his disease. The Rev. J. W. Ellis says : " The Sabbath before the last
he spent upon earth, I was with him in the afternoon and during the
night, and had a most free and full expression from him in a lengthy
conversation in regard to his religious state and his prospects beyond
the grave. A more satisfactory and profitable interview I never have
enjoyed, nor do I ever expect to enjoy with a friend in this world. His
religious comforts were sti'ong, his faith unwavering. He quoted this
passage : ' These light afflictions work for me a far more eternal and
exceeding weight of glory.' His utterance became choked with emo-
tions of joy before he finished the sentence, and with his sepulchral
voice he shouted : ' Glory to God.' "

[From the New- Orleans Advocate, Nov. 15.]
Death of James M. 'Elah.

We are pained, and have a sense of bereavement at learning the
death of this excellent man. He died of heart disease at his res^idence
in Baton Rouge, the 8th instant. Long has he been a pillar of the Me-
thodist Church. Most of the ministers who have there preached, found
homes under his hospitable roof, and all of them a fi*iend in his generous
heart. His ability was the only limit of his charity. The Baton Rovge
Advocate says :

Axother Old Citizen Gone. — Death is again in our midst, and has
laid his rude hand upon one of our oldest and most venerated citizens.
James ^I. Elam, Esq., from an affection of the heart, died this morning,
in this city, after a painful illness of two weeks. He was widely known
in this State as a prominent politician, of the Strictest and most decided
character, but at home was more esteemed for his open-hearted acts of
kindness, and his visitations and ministrations to the sick during many
a long and afflicting yellow fever epidemic. He was a conscientious
and an honest politician, an able member of the bar, and a good man.
He had long been a member of the Methodist Church, and died a
Christian, and will be mourned by our citizens after his dust shall have
mingled with its kindred earth. Peace to his venerable ashes I

BISnOP PIERCE IN NEWAlvX. 293

CHAPTER XII.

PERSONAL NOTICES OF THE LIVING.

Rev. Dk. Doub.

This able and excellent man, a member of the North-Carolina
Conference, seems to be stirring the wrath of the Bihlieal Recorder,
a Baptist paper of North-Carolina. Dr. Doub has taken up some
of the recent publications indorsed by North-CaroUna Baptists,
and is exposing their fallacy, and is turning their own weapons upon
themselves in a manner that docs not exactly suit the taste of the ac-
cusers of the Methodists. Well, when men who live in glass houses
begin to throw stones, they should not complain if they get their own
" lights knocked out." — Nashmlle Advocate, Jan. 17.

Bishop Kavanaugh.

Our churches are much gratified and blessed at this time by a visit-
ation of Bishop Kavanaugh. His services in the pulpit have been freely
rendered. On Sabbath and on Thursday night he preached — on the
latter occasion ordaining a deacon. He leaves in a few days for Cali-
fornir, »/« Panama. Mrs. K. accompanies him. — New- Orleans Advo-
cate, Jan. 19.

Bishop Pierce in Newark.

The Commercial Advertiser of Monday, 25th Feb., says : " Yester-
day the Broad-Street Methodist Episcopal Church, in Newark, N. J.,
was opened for pu1)lic wor.ship, and dedicated by the Rev. Bishop Simp-
son, of' Pittsburgh. The services were impressive, and the sermon
worthy of the well-known divine who officiated; the amount collected
and subscribed at this service, we are informed, was about ^4000. At
three o'clock there was a second service, and the Rev. Bishop Pierce of
Ga. preached. It was a sermon which those present will not soon
forget. His subject was, ' Faith, hope, charity,' and well and elo-
quently did the reverend gentleman illustrate and enforce his several
topics. Immediately after the eloquent divine had concluded, a col-
lection and subscriptions were taken up, which added about $2000
to the amount received in the morning. The building was crowded
to its utmost capacity. Every spot, both above and below, wherever
standing room could be obtained, was occupied ; but, although the
crowd was great, and many were inconveniently pressed, the most un-
broken attention prevailed throughout. One pleasant feature of the
afternoon exercises was, that ten persons subscribed each $100, to
constitute Bishop Pierce a 'life member of the church.' A third ser-

294 PERSONAL NOTICES OF TUE LIVING.

raon was to be preached at seven o'clock in evening, by the Rev. Bishop
Janes, of this city. Wc have spoken more fully of the afternoon ser-
vice, as it was the only one attended by the writer." — S. G, Advocate,
March 7

[From the North- Carolina Advocate, March 8.]
Dk. Deems.

Dr. C. F. Deems has been invited by a number of the citizens of
Petersburgh, Va., to deliver a lecture in that place, on the 11th inst,
and the next evening, the 12th, a magnificent service of plate will be
presented to him by citizens of Petersburgh, as an evidence of their
estimation of his eminent worth.

The same paper, April 3, has the following :

" Presentiition. — An elegant set of plate, costing S600, was presented
to Rev. 0. F. Deems, D.D., on the 12th March, ' by citizens of Peters-
burgh, Va., men and women, old and young, as an evidence of their
appreciation of his virtuous life and exalted worth, and especially as a
memento of their admiration of his moral courage, his powers of speech,
his Christian spirit,' etc. Such, in part, is the inscription upon the
splendid present."

Rev. Mb. AIilburn.

This gentleman is delivering a course of lectures in Charleston, be-
ing sketches of the early history and settlement of the Mississippi
Valley. More specifically the subjects are : 1. Romance — Religion —
Ambition — Greed — The Explorers of the Great Valley. 2. The French
in Illinois — The Idyl of American History. 3. The Red Man and tlie
War of the Pontiac. 4. The Cabin Homes of the Wilderness during
the American Revolution. 5. Manna in the Wilderness, or the Old
Preachers and their Preaching. G. The Western Mind and its Mani-
festations, Eloquence, and Humor. After completing the course here
he proposes to visit Augusta, where we hope he will find an appreciat-
ive audience. The lectures were delivered in Savannah, and the Neics
thus speaks of the fifth lecture :

" The lecturer sketched the progress of religion in the Mississippi
Valley, giving a glowing description of the first camp-meeting in the
country, which was held at Cane Ridge, Ky. He related many cha-
racteristic anecdotes of the early preachers, who were almost all men
of powerful frame, and possessing wonderful powers of endurance.
They were men ' mighty in the Scriptures and the Hymn-book,' the
only works they studied. Mr. M. devoted considerable time to a de-
lineation of the life and character of Francis Asbury, a man whose zeal
and activity has done more for the advancement of Methodism in this
country than any other cause. He travelled through the length and
breadth of the land — from Maine to Louisiana, from Boston to the
farthest Western settlements — preaching, visiting the conferences, in-
structing and cheering the preachers. Unwearied and devoted, with
his whole soul in the work, he accomplished more than any of whom
wc have any knowledge. The picture of the itinerant preacher was

BISHOP ANDREW AT WORK. 295

well drawn and illustrated with anecdotes, some ludicrous, some pathe-
tic — ^all going to show his capacity of adapting himself to the habits
and manners of the people among whom his lot might be cast, and his
desire to be ' instant in season and out of season' in his endeavors to
fulfill his mission."

Bishop Early in Charleston.

The good Bishop, ever punctual to his engagements, spent two or
three days of last week in Charleston, on his way to some of the mis-
sions between this point and Savannah. He will spend two weeks, in-
cluding three Sabbaths, in this work, and take Savannah and IMacon in
his route to the meeting of the Bishops in Nashville. He presided on
Friday in the regular prayer-meeting of the M. E. pastors of Charleston,
in the Advocate office, and ordained to deacon's orders one local
preacher. The occasion was marked by a pleasant interest, and left a
good impression upon the preachers present. The Bishop is eminently
at home as a leader in devotional exercises. — S. G. Adv., April 3.

Dr. Doggett.

The Richmoncl 0. Advocate quotes the following from the Petersburg
Express : " This talented minister of the Gospel delivered a very elo-
quent and highly interesting lecture, to a full audience, at Library Hall,
last night. His subject rested upon 'Moral Excellence,' with a dis-
course upon the errors and follies of life, in which he gave a divergent
though happy sweep at ' Woman's Rights,' the fashionable flummeries,
etc. ; high stations and distinctions of office, wealth, the sacra fames
attri, knowledge, were all disscussed with marked ability."

Bishop Andrew at "Work.

A writer in the JV! 0. Christian Advocate says : We were all more
than satisfied with the appointment of Brother 0. R. Blue as our pastor.
He labored with us a few weeks, much to our edification, and a call
came from Talladega to go and serve as agent for our educational inter-
ests in that section. The Church here, judging the case to be an urgent
one, gave its consent, though not until Bishop Atadrew had signified his
willingness to occupy the pulpit in Brother Blue's absence. It is now
more than a month since he left, and in the mean time the venerable
Bishop has been sotting an example to his younger brethren in the
ministry that is worthy of all imitation. He not only feeds the flock
on Sunday and Sunday night, but he cares for it all the week. He
attends and leads the prayer-meetings and class-meetings, and by his
presence and wise counsels upon these occcasions not only keeps alive,
but increases the zeal of the Church. His Sabbath ministrations, taking
the form of a series of sermons upon the various relations of life, are
exceedingly interesting and instructive. On the whole, I think that
"pure and undefilcd religion" never stood firmly at so high a point in
the church at Summerfleld as now.

296 PERSONAL NOTICES OF THE LIVING.

The Bishops.

KcT. II. N. McTyeire writes to the New- Orleans Advocate from
Nashville, during the Annual Meeting of the Missionary Board :

Bishop Kavanaugh is absent, doing missionary service on the
Pacific.

Bishop Soule is failing fast. Sunken features and the tremulous,
giving away signs of age, show themselves. Yet he is present and par-
ticipating. I have heard that he is writing an answer to Dr. Elliott's
book, called "History of the Great Secession." He and Dr. Elliott are,
perhaps, the only persons that ever read that voluminous story through.
Bishop Soule may feel called upon, on account of the official character
of that book, (its authors would not challenge his attention,) to supply
a refutation of its falsehoods, which are many. He told us in social
converse yesterday, that his jifty-seventh year in the itinerant ministry-
was completed on the fifth of last January. For over thirty years he has
been Bishop ; and in all that time never missed one of his Conferences,
and on three occasions only arrived too late to open it. This example
is not the least valuable of his excellent life.

Mrs. Soule is in very feeble health, and Bishop S. spends every night
at his country home, about six miles from the city.

Bishop Andrew has renewed his youth. For these years I have not
known him more vigorous in mind and body.

Bishop Pierce is a little fatigued by e!xcessive travel and labor. But
his buoyant spirit and well-knit frame require but a few days for recu-
peration. Demands for his special services are pouring in from every
quarter. I bear some from the Crescent City, which I have not yet
broken to him, waiting to see how far ahead he is engaged. If not fur-
ther than next year, I shall put in.

Bishop Paine is in fine health. Most of his time at command is spent
on the forthcoming Life of McKendi-ee — a treasure in store for the
Church.

Bishop Early took, on his way here, a trip down among the rice
plantations of South-Carolina and Georgia, visiting the negro missions.
As usual, on my arrival, Saturday, he had been on the ground two days
in advance of me— and I was among the first here !

Rev. Db. Huston at the Ohio "Wesletan UNrvEKSiTV.

Mr. H. A. M. Henderson, writing to the Nashville Advocate of June
26, furnishes the following : " On Tuesday evening, Rev. L. D. Huston,
D.D., addressed the Athenian Society, on the subject of ' Satisfaction.^
The Doctor's pleasing address and beauty of thought are too well
known in the South to require any eulogiura from my pen. Suffice it
to say that the address wasfeeling, the sentiment went deep down into
the heart. * * In a word, the speech was entirely successful, and
tliough delivered extempore, challenges the most acute criticism, while
it justly won the proud admiration of the audience. The 'Sons of
Minerva' looked upon their honorary representative with pride, and
treasured up his admonitions as jewels to flash in each ray of light
from heaven which may fall in the halls of their souls."

BISHOP PIEKCE IN WASHINGTON CITY. 2917

The Western Christian Advocate thus notices the address :
" On Tuesday evening, the 10th, an address was delivered by Rev.
Dr. Huston, editor of the Home Circle, Nashville, Tennessee, before the
Athenian Society on the subject of ' Satisfaction.' The address was
delivered without manuscript, in the Doctor's usual style of preachinj^,
and was well received by an intelligent and appreciative audience. It
was, indeed, out of the usual run of such performances on such occa-
sions, but was more grateful on this account. A very large number of
the audience we several times observed in tears."

[From the Nashville Advocate, June 26.]
Bishop Kavanaugh.

It is known to our readers that Bishop Kavanaugh is now in Califor-
nia, where he expects to remain till November next. The California
Christian Advocate, published by the Northern Methodists in the city
of San Francisco, thus speaks of him :

" Bishop Kavanaugh, of the M. E. Church, South, who has been
spending some months on this coast, passed the last Sabbath in this city.
He has now spent two Sabbaths in San Francisco ; and in each instance
has occupied the pulpits of the M. E. churches. His discom-ses have
been marked by purity of sentiment, felicity of expression, beauty and
force of illustration, and a most refreshing unction. His claim to the
apostolical succession is valid, and his labors among us have heightened
our estimate of ' Christianity in earnest,' as a divinely instituted agency
for the saving of men. He is doing the woi'k of an evangelist in the
State ; everywhere diffusing the savor of a kindly. Christian influence,
tending to the harmony and consequent efficiency of Methodism in the
land. He gave a lecture on Tuesday evening last, in the Congregational
church, for the benefit of the German M. E. church, in course of erec-
tion under the direction of the missionary. Rev. A. Kellncr. The sub-
ject — Spiritual Christianity — was presented in a manner suited to
impress the audience with just views of the real genius of the Gospel —
its essential spirituality, as distinguished from any and every form of
ritualism — views of Christianity but too little understood, and when
professed but too slightly appreciated — views which, nevertheless, ought
to obtain and prevail everywhere."

Rev. a. R. Euwin.

The Nashville University, at its late commencement, conferred the
degree of D.D. on our good friend. Rev. A. R. Erwin, of the Tennessee
Conference — an honor justly merited by this worthy minister of Christ.

[From the 8. G. Advocate, June 27.]
Bisnop Pierce in Washington City.

We learn from the National Intelligencer that Bishop Pierce preached
morning and night in the Methodist Church, South, in Washington,

298 PERSONAL NOTICES OF TUE LIVING.

D. C, loth June — in the morning from Jno. 1 : 14, and at night from 1
Tim. 1 : 8. The reporter says : It is not our purpose to attempt, in the
brief space allotted us, to give even an outline of the two discourses de-
livered by this able divine. We doubt not that he fully sustained the
high reputation so generally awarded to him for biblical learning and
pulpit oratory. That, like Timothy, he has from a child been a student
of the Scriptures must be evident to all who heard him speak and saw
the readiness (without the aid of notes) with which he brought the sa-
cred text to his aid at every step, as he proceeded in the discussion of
those topics which it is the most diificult to unfold clearly to the human
understanding, such as the mysterious trinity of the Godhead, the vica-
rious sacrifice of Christ, justification by faith alone, and the necessity of
a renewal of the heart by the Holy Spirit. The two discourses were
only parts of the same subject. Although delivered from different texts,
they were predicated on the same first principles — the competency of
Christ to make an atonement, and (for the redemption of man) the ne-
cessity for it in order that the law might be fulfilled by Christ and
kept by regenerate man. The whole together might be regarded as a
clear and forcible exposition of th6 system of theology as taught by the
orthodox in distinction from Socinianism, and especially by the whole
Methodist family. But one prominent object of the entire day's effort
v>'as to raise by donations such a sum of money as would be necessary
to relieve this small society not only from a debt on the original pur-
chase of their church edifice, but to complete their design of enlargement
and improvement inside and out, making a new pulpit, new, convenient,
and cushioned seats, adding many more to the former number. They
have given a very pleasant finish by new gas-light fixtures, fresco paint-
ing and other ornamental works which furnish convenient seats in a
room presenting an air of neatness and good taste which it will be diffi-
cult to surpass. Although the subscription fell far short of the sum
proposed to be raised, yet the amount actually donated was decidedly
liberal, extending to about $1500. Southern members of Congress
gave (as if they were determined that there should be a Methodist
Church, South, as far north as Washington) from ten to fifty dollars each.
The chm'ch membership worshipping here is small, but they have a faith-
ful pastor in Rev. Dr. Doggett, and on this occasion the crowded house
presented rather an imposing accession — with one of the most able and
eloquent divines in the country in the pulpit, and an appreciating audi-
ence, embracing persons of a high order of intelligence, as well as those
high in office, from our Chief Magistrate and many members of the Na-
tional Legislature, even to the single-minded inquirer after truth.

[From tlie Richmond Advocate, July 10.]

Rev. F. E. Pitts.

The. Centenary and Trinity congregations in this city were edified by
the ministerial services of this eniincnt minister, on Sunday last. He
delivered a discourse on Prophecy at the first-named church, in the
morning, greatly to the pleasure and profit of the congregation. The
discourse in the afternoon, on John 3 : 16, was refreshingly spiritual
and edifying. He is to lecture at Centenary to-night (Monday) in con-

liKV. DIJ. DKKMS AT UAMPDEN SIDA'EV, VA. 299

tinuation of the subject discussed on Sunday morning. The impressions
produced by his sermons, will always insure him a welcome in Rich-
mond.

[t)-om the Nashvilk AdvocateJ]

Rev. Dk. Parsons.

We learn from the papers that Dr. Parsons, of St. Louis, made an
eloquent address at the late commencement at McKendree College, III.
The pleasant interchanges that occasionally occur between the North
and the Soutti always produce a good effect.

[From the K C. Advocate.]

Rev. Db. Deems at Hajipden Sidney, Va.

My Dear Brother Heflin : As we were at the recent Commence-
ment of Hampden Sidney CoUege, and had the pleasure of hearing the
address of Rev. Dr. Deems, to the Philanthropic Society, we have con-
cluded to send you a brief notice of it. The subject of his address
was, " The comparative merits of Pantheism and Christianity, as the
basis on which to build a manly character ;" a subject in the selection
of which, the speaker manifested as much good judgment and taste, as
he did intellectual ability in the discussion of it. We can conceive of
no subject better suited to such an occasion, and the times. It was pe-
culiarly appropriate to the times, because in this age, there is an evident
tendency, both in this country and in Europe, to abandon a pure Christ-
ianity, and substitute the seductive but fatal errors of Pantheism. The
subject was appropriate to the occasion for two reasons ; first, because it
afforded Dr. Deems an opportunity of exhibiting to the many distin-
guished divines and metaphysicians who were present, how thoroughly
he had studied and mastered this abstruse and dangerous doctrine of
Pantheism, which has perplexed and bewildered the intellects, even of
a Carlyle and Kant, the profoundest thinkers of their age. It was admir-
ably suited to the occasion for a second reason, namely, because it was
delivered before a literary society of educated young men ; and there is
no religious error into wliich reading young men are more probable to
fall, than into the attractive and fascinating one of Pantheism. It has novor
been our pleasure to listen to a more elegantly chaste and powerfully
convincing orator. The speaker first discussed Pantheism, stating all
the arguments in its favor in their most forcible light, and then singly
and satisfactorily refuted them all, showing that in the doctrine of Pan-
theism no answers could be found for the questions, "Whence came
man ?" "Whither is he going?" " AV"hat was the object of man's crea-
tion ? " lie then discussed Christianity, pointing out the harmonious
beauties of the system, showing that without it no explanation could be
given to the external world, and without it the cravings of the immortal
soul could never be satisfied. It was the most clear and conclusive ex-
position we ever heard. * * The audience sat in profound silence,
and listened with the deepest interest and attention through the whole
speech, though they had been just before addi-csscd in a speech of some

300 PEUSONAL NOTICES OF THE LIVING.

length by a very distinguished gentleman from Richmond. The learned
President and all the other members of the Faculty of the College were
delighted with the oration and the man. * * * "We heard one of the
most intelligent and talented students of the College say that he had
been reading Carlyle, Kant, and Paine, and that he believed them until
he heard Dr. Deems' address ; that that address refuted them all, and
that his hearing it was the most fortunate event of his life.

Rev. G. W. D. Haruis.

The Andrew College, Trenton , Tenn., at the late Commencement, con-
ferred the honorary degree of D.D. upon the Rev. G. W. D. Harris, of the
Memphis Conference.

[From the Richmond Advocate, July 31.]

Rev. John E. Edwaeds.

Rev. J. E. Edwards reached this city according to promise ia one of
his letters from France, on the 21th inst. He is looking very well ; and
has been greatly improved in health by his European visit. His flock
and fi'iends welcome him with glad hearts. One of the largest congre-
grations we have seen in the church, since the Conference of 1850,
greeted him at Centenary on Sunday morning.

[From the N. 0. Advocate, Augtist 2.]

Rev. Dr. Longstreet.

Dr. Longstreet has sent in his resignation as President of the Univer-
sity of Mississippi, and although sti'ongly importuned and petitioned by
the trustees and scholars to withdraw the same, he peremptorily refuses
to do so.

[From the Nashville Advocate, Aug. 7.]

Rev. Dr. Green.

We said last week that our brother, Dr. Green, had been over to the
old North State to deliver a sermon. He seems to have produced quite
an excitement. The Greensboro' Times speaks in glowing terms of the
Doctor and his discourse.

" Early Wednesday morning a large accession of visitors came pour-
ing in from every direction. All seemed eager to hear the Valedictory
Sermon to the Graduating Class, by Rev. A. L. P. Green, D.D., of
Nashville, Tenn. His text was selected from the second Psalm : " Why
should the heathen rage?" etc. His object was to warn against the
practical infidelity of infidel cliques, and would-be fashionables. Dr.
Green is a large and fine representative of the Western country, first
commencing his ministerial career at the age of seventeen, in what was

RKV. DK. CEOSS AND MB. MOOD. 301

then ' the Western wilderness.' His personal appearance is extremely
imposing, and of itself throws the spirit of reverence over the congrega-
tion. He remarked in the first of the discourse that he had no written
sermon especially prepared for the occasion ; tliat his discourses were
always extempore. And where such ideas, illustrations, and eloquent
flow of words are at instant command, we see no necessity for a manu-
script. Dr. Green's manner of speaking and flow of words are so easy
that his only appearance of labor is to hold back the sublimity of his
ideas. Though extremely warm, the audience listened with unceasing
interest for near two hours."

Rev. J. E. Cobb.

This gentleman, late editor of the Memj)lm Christian Adtocate, and
member of the Arkansas Conference, has been transferred to the St.
Louis Conference, and stationed at Lexington. We congratulate him
on his escape from the tripod to the pastorate. The St. Louis Christian
Ad coca te says :

It will be remembered that at the last session of the St. Louis Con-
ference, Lexington station was left to be supplied. A letter just
received from Rev. James E. Cobb, of the Arkansas Conference, late
editor of the Memphis Christian Advocate, announces that he has been
regularly transferred to this Conference, and ai)pointed to the charge of
that station, and will. Providence permitting, be at his post at no very
distant day.

We take this opportunity to congratulate the people of Lexington on
the prospect of having their pulpit supplied by one who has proven
himself to be a soimd Methodist, and an indefatigable laborer, and we
congratulate ourself and the other members of the Conference on this
accession to our ranks.

Brother Cobb is a good man, and has proven himself to be an able
writer ; one who knows and loves the Methodist doctrine and Discipline.

We bespeak for him and his little family " a brother's hand and a
brother's welcome" among the good people of Lexington, and also among
the members of the Conference and preachers, and people generally.

[^From the South- Carolina Advocate, Dec. 11.

Rbv. Dr. Cross axd Mr. Mood.

OrrwARD-BorsT). — The Rev. Dr. Cross, with a part of his family, left
this city, Saturday last, by steamer Nashville, for New- York, whence he
takes passage to Europe. The Rev. F. A Mood will leave in a day or
two, by ship direct to Liverpool. These brethren will carry with them
the best wishes of their numerous friends in this community and else-
where. The S. C. Conference at its late session, passed the following :
" Whereas this Conference has learned that oiur esteemed brethren Dr.
Joseph Cross and Rev. F. A. Mood expect to visit Europe during the
ensuing year, therefore, Bcsohed, That while we are loth to see these
brethren leave the field of active service — though it be but for a time —
wc will pray the Father of Mercies to bless them abundantly in all their

302 PERSONAL NOTICES OF THE LIVING.

journcyings whether by sea or land, and to restore tlicni to us full of
strength and zeal for the great work in which we are all engaged."

[From the New- Orleans Advocate, Dec. 22.]

Bishop Kavanaugh,

Bishop Kavanaugh and his wife arrived on Saturday morning, the
13 th inst. The Bishop will remain in the city and vicinity until the
meeting of the Louisiana Conference, which convenes at Waterproof,
Parish of Tensas, February 4. His presence amongst us is exceedingly
gratifying, and his services in the churches will be appreciated and
gratefully acknowledged. We are warranted in promising additional
contributions of California " items."

Sketch of Bishop Early.

[The editor has been at some loss where to insert the following sketch
from the pen of the Rev. R. A. Young. Perhaps this is its most nearly
appropriate place.]

He is a native of Virginia, born about the year 1785, of Baptist par-
ents. At an early age, perhaps in 1707, he joined the Virginia Con-
ference, and became an itinerant. From all I can learn, he has filled
the oflBce of Secretary to an annual conference oftener, has travelled and
preached in the capacity of presiding elder of a district a greater num-
ber of years, and has sat in General Conference as a delegate more
frequently, than any man now living. At the General Conference which
met in Petersburg, Virginia, in 1846, he was elected General Book
Agent; and at the General Conference in St. Louis, in 1850, he was re-
elected. Several General Conferences had given him a respectable vote
for the Episcopal office, but he was not elected until May, ] 854. This
was done by the General Conference which assembled in Columbus,
Georgia.

Bishop Early is a traveller. He has the experience and health, and
determination to go right on. He can find out more about the routes,
and lose fewer connections, than any man you will meet in a summer's
day. The writer of this sketch lacks several years of being half as old
as the subject of it; but he would dislike very much to be compelled
" to make time" with Bishop Early for more than a month. , Shortly
after that, the papers, he fears, would have to chronicle — " another man
fallen" — not in " the field," but in the road.

Bishop Early is a revivalist. Bear witness the fruits of his morning
prayer-meetings in the Conference room, and the glorious results of his
pulpit labors, wherever they are bestowed. The daily morning prayer-
meetings at our annual sessions, and the manner of conducting them,
originated with him, and I am glad to learn they are becoming some-
what general. As they are good in themselves, as their results are very
good, and as they originated with a good man, may they continue as
long as there is a sinner unconvicted, a penitent unconverted, or a
preacher unsanctified. And if any of our superintendents in the great
future (we have none such now) should not know how to conduct a

SKETCH OF BISHOP EARLY. 303

praycr-niecting, " and call mourners," as Gough said to the Oxford stu-
dents, " they may consider themselves dismissed."

Bishop Early is a preacher. He has prepared his sermons with con-
siderable care, and preserved the sketches in elegantly-bound manuscript
volumes. He generally has a volume of these notes with him in the
pulpit. Sometimes he lays it before him on the Bible — sometimes leaves
it on the pulpit sofa — and sometimes he does not even take it out of his
pocket. I have listened to him in Nashville, in St. Louis, in Lexington,
and in the country, and I never heard him preach, but once, when a
decided impression was not made, and an instantaneous effect produced.
There is considerable uniformity in his sermons. The first half contains
much instruction in theological science, or Christian duty, the conclu-
sion nearly always to the heart. His discourses are short, and do not
ignore the anecdote.

Preaching to the negroes in Lexington, Missouri, one very warm after-
noon, with the house crammed to the last stool, and about six children
fretting and crying at once, to the great disturbance of the orthodox and
devotional, said he : "Never mind, friends. Let the children cry. It
will strengthen their lungs. I say, this is what strengthens their lungs.
Then, their mothers can not leave them at home — nobody to leave them
with. And you would not have a mother lose a sermon just to accom-
modate you. K those mothers were to take those children out now,
they would lose the sermon — lose the sermon, I say, to please you."
The Bishop talked on about five minutes. By this time the little weep-
ers increased in number rapidly, and their lungs began to give evidence
of great strength. He paused a moment, then remarked very gravely :
" There might be occasions when a noisy child should be taken out.
Such occasions as the present, for example — funeral occasions, sacramen-
tal occasions." He was preaching a funeral sermon, which was to be
followed by the sacrament. The mothers and children adjourned, with-
out motion, and quiet was restored.

Bishop Early is a chairman. " What a splendid judge was spoiled
when he took the pulpit 1" was more than once on the lips of the lawyers
of Springfield, Missouri, last fall. He knows what is in the Discipline,
having helped to put it there. He knows what the General Conferences
have said, and decided, without reference to " Proceedings :" was present,
and helped them to say, and decide, and makeup their "Proceedings."
The rules which ordinarily govern deliberative bodies are as familiar to
him as forty years' practice can make them. Then he has the nerve,
the eye, the cheek, and the voice, " to put business through,"

304 MISCELLANEOUS.

CHAPTER XIII.

MISCELLANEOUS.

[From tlie NashviUe Advocate.']
Southern Methodism.

Under this head the New- York Christian Advocate gives or copies
some statistics, showing the strength and prosperity of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, South. It says :

" Southern Methodism has now six Bishops — the Kcv. Messrs. Soule,
Andrew, Paine, Pierce, Early, and Kavanaugh. Two have died since
its organization — Drs. Capers and Bascom. They have to attend twen-
ty-two Annual Conferences, besides the Pacific, embracing an immense
region, from Virginia to Texas, and the Indian Territory. Some of
these bodies are very large. In South-Carolina there are over forty-five
thousand colored members ; in Georgia more than twenty-two thousand ;
Alabama, nearly twenty thousand, etc. ' Whole number of travelling
preachers, one thousand nine hundred and forty -two ; superannuated,
one hundred and fifty ; and local, four thousand three hundred and fifty-
nine ; white members, four hundred and twenty-eight thousand five
hundred and eleven; colored, one hundred and sixty-four ^ thousand
five hundi-ed and eighty-four ; Indians, three thousand seven hundred
and fifty-seven ; total, six hundred and three thousand three hundred
and three. The increase last year was over twenty -three thousand.

'' The Southern Methodist Church now numbers more than three
hundred missions — domestic and foreign — two hundred and seventy
missionaries, seventy thousand mission members, with twenty-five
thousand pupils in the mission-schools. There are missions among the
people of color ; the German population at the South ; the Indian
tribes ; in China, and California, (now the Pacific Conference.) The
Society has been in existence since 1845, and from sixty-eight thousand
dollars, its annual receipts have reached nearly one hundred and seventy
thousand dollars."

The editor then proceeds to notice the Southern Publishing Houso
and our periodical press, all in commendable terms. He makes one sad
mistake, however. He says : " When the Southern Church separated
its connection with the Northern, its agents received seventy thousand
dollars in cash fi-om the latter, with seventeen thousand dollars from
the Chartered Fund." Not exactly. This separation took place in
1844, but not until 1853 or 1854, did the South receive any portion of
the funds. The South had to institute a suit before those having pos-
session of the property would hand over what the Conference of 1844
agreed upon as the basis of the settlement. Had it been otherwise ; had
the North divided as they agreed to do, it would have saved to the

SOUXnERN METIIODIS^r. 305

South many thousands of dollars, and would have enabled them nine
years sooner to have installed their pubUshing operations.

The editor proceeds to mark the difference between the North and the
South. He says :

" The capital difference between this great Southern section of Me-
thodism and the greater Northern one, arises from the subject of slave-
ry ; the former has obliterated from its discipline the testimony of our
fathers on this ' great evil,' and seems to have gone over to the cxtrcm-
cst ultraism of Southern politicians on the subject, admitting it into
the ministry, and even the episcopacy, as well as casting away avcry
restraint upon it among the laity, If we mistake not the tone ol" its
organs, it is beginning even to recognize the scriptural and abstract
riglit of slavery. On this account, as also on account of the manner
in which it conducted its secession from the M. E. Church, it has been
refused recognition by both Northern and transatlantic Methodism. It
has, we believe, no formal relations with any other branch of the de-
nomination throughout the world."

This is a most extraordinary paragraph, and fdled us with surprise,
till we saw in a note that the editor was absent. Surely Mr. Stevens
could hardly betray so much malice as is exhibited in so short a space ;
or did he prepare the paragraph before he left the city ? There is a
difference, we admit, between the Southern and Northern Church, on the
subject of slavery ; but it does not consist in points specified in the
Christum Advocate.

The Northern Chui'ch, in a majority of her ministers, or at least of
her representatives in the General Conference, is abolition ; and yet the
Discipline of the Church does not prohibit slaveholders from entering
into the communion of the Church. There is no rule in the book by
which a member can be excluded for holding slaves ; indeed, there are
many slaveholders now in the Northern Church, including class-leaders,
stewards, local preachers, and ordained ministers, to say nothing of those
travelling preachers who are indirectly involved in the practice of hold-
ing slaves ; and yet the Church is declared to be an anti-slavery Church,
and abolitionists are seeking to introduce a rule to exclude all slave-
holders. The Southern Church, in her General Rules, retains the item
against buying and selling men, women, and children, with an intention
to enslave them ; but this. Dr. Bond said, and others say, who know
the histoiy of tlie " Rules," was introduced in view of the African
slave-trade. The Southern Church on the subject of slavery takes
scriptural ground, and is consistent with the word of God, and with
herself. A more inconsistent, contradictory organization can not be
found in the United States on the subject of slavery than the Northern
Methodist Episcopal Church. Abolition to the core, and yet wheedling
the South into the belief that it is not abolition. Many of the Church,
North, condemn slavery as " the sum of all villainies," and yet by some
of her chief ministers establishes the ftict that it existed in the Apos-
tolic Church ; is not condemned by the word of God, and advocates
the retention of slaveholders in their communion. That a rule will bo
introduced, prohibiting the admission of slaveholders into the Church,
we hardly question ; but as yet, the law tolerates .slavery, and it is more
than the Northern General Conference as yet has dared to do, to insert
a rule, and administer it, excluding the owners of slaves. We affirni

J506 MISCELLANEOUS,

that there are at this day hundreds of slaveholders in the Northern Me-
thodist Church — including ordained ministers — slaveholders \vho buy
and sell slaves at pleasure.

And still the Southern Church is not recognized as a branch of the
great Methodist family ! Why ? Because it is identified with slavery

Such double-dealing is too bad for a Christian country, and we regard
it as no great calamity that such should not extend official-fraternal re-
lations. The South occupies the true Wesleyan ground. Mr. Wesley
never made non-slaveholding a test of membership in his societies.
Nor did the British '\7esleyan Church, when she had the West-India
slaves and their masters in her communion. The South occupies the
only true and scriptural ground. They interfere not with the civil insti-
tutions of the country, but preach Christ to servant and master, and
bring both alike to God.

The South not recognized! She has brought to God, according to
the above statistics, and holds now in Church communion, and exercises
pastoral care over one hundred and sixty-four thousand five hundred
and eighty four colored 2:>eojjle, besides the multiplied thousands who
have died in the faith, and have gone to heaven. Yet she is not recog-
nized/ By whom? By a Church holding in her own communion
slaveholders and slaveholding ordained ministers ; and yet a majority
of her representatives declare slaveholders unfit for church-membership.
Let Mr, Stevens rid his Church of its inconsistencies, and then come
and seek to be recognized by the South, the only genuine Wesleyans
in the land, and the South will consider the legitimacy of its claims.

" Southern Methodism in England."

Under this caption, the Christian Advocate and Journal quotes the
following sentences from one of the letters of the Rev. John E, Ed-
wards :

" An English correspondent of the Richmond Christian Advocate
says : ' It may not be out of place just here to say, that the Methodist
Episcopal Church, South, in the United States, is scarcely recognized
by the Wesleyan Methodists of this country. Personally, I have re-
ceived the most polite and courteous attentions from the ministers to
whom I had letters of introduction ; but I have not been invited to
preach in any of their chapels. Om* Church is regarded, to say the
least, as a pro-slavery Church, and the Methodists of this country will
not tolerate any such body as a part of the Christian family.' "

The fact that English Methodists repudiate, or refuse to recognize
Southern Methodism, whatever the reasons for referring to it by our
New- York contemporary, need not surprise, and does not grieve any one
in the South, that we are aware of. The facts of the case, in our
judgment, are more humiliating to others than to the repudiated. Let
us see,

1, English Methodists did recognize Southern Methodism as genuine
Christianity from the beginning of our history down to 1844, We fur-
nish them and the world with the same proofs of Christian character
now, that we did then. If we were then considered worthy of recog-
nition and association it is for them to show cause for non-fraternizaticm
now.

A OONFEREXOE FACULTY. 307

2. If the refusal of Christian recognition is because of our relations
to slavery, it is for them to show why they fellowship Northern ile-
thodism which, if not to the same extent, is, as to the fact, as certainly
connected with slavery as we of the South are.

3. If the refusal assumes the ground that the M. E. Church, South,
is pro-slavery, the assumption is just one of those errors into which
people three thousand miles away, may be led by the false reports of
evil and misguided men, who, having injured, hate and misrepresent
their near neighbors and former brethren.

4. If the repudiation of Southern Methodism is because Northern
Methodism proclaims itself to be anti-slavery, it would be well for Eng-
lish Methodism to inquire into the congruity of its proclamation, and
the fact of its holding on to slaveholding in the Church, and also, into
the Christian consistency of its present relations to slavery, and its
pretension of freedom from the great evil.

5. But English and Northern Methodism can settle these points
among themselves, although it is not to be expected that any especial
pains at correction will be taken by either of the two parties, who sus-
tain the relations of deceiver and deceived towards each other ; the
more especially when one party is so distant as to be wholly dependent
upon the other ; and the other is too madly blind, or too stupefied by
prejudice to be either willing or competent to " speak the words of ti-uth
and soberness."

6. But the English Methodists do not recognize us. Well. Let them
look to that. Enough for us that God does ! His sun shines on us
still, though English Methodism frowns ; His rains foil and give us
fruitful seasons, and we grow cotton — and cotton is king in England !
Our churches are growing, our ministers zealous and successful ; the
bud, the blossom, and the fruit appear in our Zion : " The Lord of
hosts is with us ; the God of Jacob is our refuge." Let Northern Me-
thodism scowl and scoff ; the Lord does not follow their counsels — and
we trust to live a while longer, to help the poor slaves on their way to
Immanuel's land.^i2icA??J0?i(Z Christian Advocate.

[From the New- Orleans Advocate^
A Conference Faculty.

An Improvement — Examining Committees — The Plan at Fault — Theo-
logical Seminary Proposed — On ^Vheels — Faculty Ditto — A Valuable
Diploma.

The minutes of the last Louisiana Conference contain an item new
and noteworthy, under the old caption, " Committees of Examination."
We hesitate not to pronovmce it an improvement.

The construction of committees to examine junior members of Con-
ference of the first, second, third, and fourth years, is frequently, and
not unjustly, found fault with. Now and then the announcement fails
wholly — is overlooked; or certain committee-men do not know what
they have been appointed to, whether to examine the class of first,
second, third, or fourth year, or whether appointed at all. The name

308 MISCELLANEOUS.

was heard as the Bishop read it out, for something. There is a vague
impression. The certainty and thoroughness of the examinations on
the course of study through which candidates are required to pass, is
lessened, and the "course" becomes, so far, a dead letter.

Again : The committees are generally reconstructed every year. Can-
didates may know more about the text'book than members of commit-
tee. The latter, to say the best that can be said, are rusty. They are
not experts at conducting an examination — lack of practice or familiar-
ity M'ith the text, or both. This drudgery over, they may not be ap-
pointed on that or any other committee for years ; and therefore they
do not set about remedying their deficiencies.

The results of such examinations — loose, shambling, indecisive — often
do injustice to the candidate, and always make an impression on him
unfavorable to earnestness in the educational requirements of Confer-
ence.

We have heard of persons being put on committees, of acknowledged
unfitness, but for the reason that they might become acquainted with
the course of study. This is jesting with the whole matter, and pros-
trates it. It is worth inquiiing, how they got into full Conference
standing and the highest orders, without learning the studies prescribed.
But now they are in, some less expensive plan for teaching them would
be as well.

Standing committees are preferable to uncertain and varying ones,
and this coming up to the work unprepared.

Is not the method under consideration better ? — to classify the course
of study by aflinities of subjects, and not by years ? The minutes be-
fore us show :

1. " Committee on English Literature."

This committee is expected to be a fixture, if the Bishop will accept
the recommendation of Conference. It examines the class of the first
year on Grammar, Elocution, and Essay ; the class of the second year
on continuation of same and General History ; the class of the third
year on Rhetoric and Sermon ; the class of the fourth year on Logic
and Sermon. Their task is concluded. On these subjects they di'aw up
report.

2. " Committee on Doctrinal and Controversial Theology."

Takes class of first year through first volume of Wesley's Sermons,
Fletcher's Appeal, and Watson's Conversations.

Class of second year through second volume of Wesley's Sermons,
etc., etc.

3. " Committee on Ecclesiastical History and Church Government."
This committee has to do more or less with each of the four classes.

To it is assigned Discipline, Church History, Controversial and Polemic
Divinity generally.

It is evident that this is subdivision of labor with all its benefits. As
in a college, one of the faculty does not devote himself to Freshmen,
another to Sophomores ; but one is a Professor of English Literature,
another of Mathematics — and these branches they pursue through
every grade and class : so here is a Conference Faculty.

Among other benefits of this apportionment would be suggestion as
to the text-books most suitable, under each department, to make it well
furnished and well arranged. Books are in the stereotyped catalogue

METHODIST HISTOlilCAL SOCIETY. 309

that might be superseded by their betters, and will be, when analysis
is directed to it. The line of defense is here incomplete, while there it
is overdone and out of proportion to what is needed.

When these committees become well known and ripe in their office,
by practice and exclusive study — no more an annual sham, a mere
iiominu umbra, candidates, knowing that examinations are not to be a
hit and miss, a skip-and-jump business, will prepare for them. The
educating function of the itinerancy will then assume dignity and im-
portance. One or two days before the meeting of Conference seriously
devoted to examining and preparing reports, the ground ploughed, cross-
ploughed, and harrowed, would do away with the hurried and superficial
style now too prevalent.

It is no more doubted a man may learn while preaching as well as
preach while learning. Now suppose the course of study, well attended
to, as it is ; or, what is better, overhauled and amended. Suppose this
" Conference Faculty" well up to the work; and with the prestige which
learning and professional fidelity would soon give them. What have
we ? A Theological Seminary on wheels ! Faculty and pupil on horse-
back ! Libraries in saddle-bags !

Make up a faculty of six or eight such men as any of our conferences
could furnish, subject them to the responsibilities and demands of then*
position ; let the system be fairly worked, and the diploma of this facul-
ty would be at a premium. The preacher who, while in the regular
work, had studied the " course," and received a diploma with the signa-
ture of this facult}^, and the concurring vote of the Conference, would
stand at palpable and acknowledged advantage before the cloistered stu-
dent of Andover, or Princeton, or Alexandria, whose technical sheep-
skin was illuminated more pretentiously. The Conference diploma
would be abetter technical guarantee of having learned what a preacher
ought to know, and of fitness for the duties of the pastor's and evange-
list's office.

"Perhaps the Carolinas."

Some months ago, a letter-writer from Tennessee to the Neio- Orleans
Adwcatc, speaking of a project in Tennessee to aid young preachers in
prosecuting their studies, uses the following language : " Other Con-
ferences, Virginia, Alabama, etc., and j^erhajjs the Garolinas, have
within them societies seeking through educational institutions in exist-
ence, * * * tjjg same end proposed in the Tennessee Conference."

Now, the historical fact is, that the very first society regularly formed
for the aid of preachers preparing themselves by study for the itineran-
cy, was formed in the i^orth-CsLTolina. Conference. " Virginia, Ala-
bama, etc.," followed. If there be any honor in this thing, it belongs
to our Conference. — North- Carolina Advocate.

[From the Southern Christian Advocate."]

Methodist Histokical Society.

In compliance with a previous call a large number of the members of
the S, C. Conference convened on Friday afternoon, 21st November,

310 MISCELLANEOUS.

1856, in the Court-IIouse of Yorkville, S. C, for the purpose of organ-
izing a Methodist Historical Society in connection with the S. C. Annual
Conference. W. A. Gamewell was called to the Chair ; and Paul A. M,
WiUiams requested to act as Secretary. Tlie Secretary then read to the
meeting " The Constitution and Circular of the Methodist Historical
Society of the Baltimore Annual Conference ;" when on motion a com-
mittee of Jive, consisting of Paul A. M. Williams, A. M. Chreitzburg,
F. A. Mood, A. G. Stacy, and W. T. Caston, were appointed to draft a
constitution and nominate oflicers. After consultation, the committee
reported the following constitution and nominations, which were sub-
mitted, and unanimously adopted.

Constitution.

Article I. This Association shall be denominated, The Historical So-
ciety of tiie South-Carolina Annual Conference of the M. E. Church,
South.

Article II. The object of the Society shall be to collect and -preserve
information in connection with the rise and progress of Methodism
within the bounds of the South-Carolina Annual Conference and else-
where ; likewise objects of curiosity and interest, in the form of manu-
scripts, books, pamphlets, medals, portraits, autographs, etc., etc., and
any thing else that may shed light upon this interesting subject.

Article III. The property of the Association shall be deposited at
Wofford College, and each article numbered and labelled legibly with
the name of the Association, the name of the donor, and date at which
it was presented ; the number, etc., to correspond with a like entry
upon a register kept for that purpose.

Article IV. All the property of the Association shall be open to the
inspection of members of the Society and others-, under such restrictions
and regulations as may be adopted by the Board of Curators, and in no
case shall any article of any kind be removed from the Museum or De-
pository ; which depository shall contain, under the same restrictions
and regulations for the benefit of the members, a Library as rapidly
formed as circumstances may admit.

Article V. The interests of the Society shall be under the supervision
of a President, three Vice-Presidents, a Treasm-er, a Corresponding and
a Recording Secretary, with three Cm-ators and a Board of nine Mana-
gers ; the said officers to be elected annually and continue in office until
their successors be appointed.

Article VI. The Officers and Managers shall meet annually at the
seat of the Conference session. Five shall constitute a quorum for the
transaction of business ; the Curators being ex-officio members of the
Board.

The Society shall meet annually during the Conference session for
the purpose of hearing a lecture, of electing officers, and attending to
any other necessary business. The times and places of meeting of the
Board and Society shall be made known by the President of the Asso-
ciation.

Article VII. An Initiation Fee offfty cents and an annual conti'ibu-
tion of fifty cents shall constitute a member for one year ; a contribution

JIETUODIST HISTOKlCAi SOCIETY. 311

of ten dollars at one time a life member ; and donations of value shall
constitute the donor an honorary member.

Article VIII. The Board of Managers shall have charge of the inter-
ests of the Society, and the Curators during the intervals of the meet-
ing of said Board. The remaining officers shall perform the duties
usually appertaining to such officers.

Article IX. This constitution may be altered or amended at any
annual meeting of the Society by a vote of two thirds of the members
present: ^JTOr/J<?(Z, such alteration has been previously approved by the
Board of Managers.

The following persons were then elected to compose the Board until
the next regular election :

"W. A. Gamewell, President ; Wm. M. Wightman, 1st Vice-Presi-
dent ; Whitcfoord Smith, 2d V. P. ; Nicholas Talley, 3d V. P. ; Paul

A. M. "Williams, Secrctaiy ; A. G. Stacy, Recording Secretary ; Thomas
Raysor, Treasurer.

Curators. — Robert Bryce, Columbia, S. C. ; "W. T. Gaston, Camden,
S. C. ; S. Bobo, Spartanburg, S. C.

Managers. — Robert J. Boyd, James Stacy, "Wm. Martin, Joseph Cross,
Samuel Leard, Wm. A. McSwain, Abel M. Chi-eitzberg, F. A. Mood, S.

B. Jones.

Rov. "Whitefoord Smith, D.D., was appointed to deliver the fii-st An-
nual Lecture before the Society.

OMISSION

From 2^- 189, at lottom, the following Tables of Contents ai'e omitted:

Jidy. — 1. Gibbon's " Decline and Fall." 2. Nicodemus Frishlin. 3.
The Religious Movement under Tiberius, referred to by Seneca. 4.
The Successful Merchant. 5. Names and Surnames. 6. The Christ of
History. 7. The Tomb of Cyrus. 8. Brief Reviews. 9. Biblical, Lite-
rary, and Religious Miscellanies.

October. — 1. The Papuous-Negritos. 2. Prof. Sassnett's "Views of
Female Education" reviewed. 3. The Atonement — its Vicariousness.
4. Paul, the Twelfth Apostle. 5. California — Past, Present, and Fu-
ture. 6. A Cursory Review of Prof Sassnett's Theory of Female Edu-
cation. 7. Thoughts on the Internal Structure of the Earth, and the
Natural Causes by which the Deluge was produced. 8. The Book of
Judith. 9. Brief Reviews. 10. Biblical, Literary, and Religious Mis-
cellanies. 11. Removal of the Review to Nashville, Tenn.